h seems like something out of a sci-fi film.
But for Air Marshal S. Mukerji, chasing the sun's shadow during the total solar eclipse on Oct 24, 1995, that's exactly what happened. Heralding the IAF's participation in scientific study of total solar eclipse, Mukerji, presently the Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters and the then commanding officer of IAF's only (photo)MiG-25 reconnaissance squadron based at Bareilly, undertook a sortie in the giant plane to record the celestial event.
He got the rare opportunity to film the Sun's corona from an astounding altitude of 80,000 feet. "We flew at Mach 2.5 in the path of the eclipse at 80,000 feet along the planned central axis of the eclipse over Neem ka Thana (in Rajasthan's Sikar district)," recalled Mukerji of his historic sortie.
The sortie finds a mention in his flying log book simply as "Supersonic Profile". "The weather and visibility were not any constraints as clarity at stratospheric levels is far better than that nearer the ground," he said.
After the total solar eclipse of 1898 over India, the next occurrence took place in 1980. And in the subsequent total solar eclipse in 1995, the IAF assisted the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in their quest to film this celestial alignment.
This was possible with aviation speeds streaking way past the supersonic barrier. With a manual camera mounted above the instrument panel, a special lead and button provided to the other pilot, Wing Commander Y.S. Babu, seated in the front cockpit, the duo, with special solar filters on their visors flew straight towards the Sun for a minute and 24 seconds, photographing never-before seen images of the spectacle during the total solar eclipse.
"A lot of preparation went into the sortie. It had to be charted and axis programmed on the inertial navigation system, with briefings by scientists armed with NASA charts. The aircraft was first jacked up and the angle-of-attack simulated on the ground to harmonize the camera along the axis.
"In addition, the aircraft's belly camera could capture the shadow beneath that was 85 km in width," Mukerji explained.
During Wednesday's eclipse, a 10-member team of scientists and a camera team will be flying in an AN-32 transport aircraft from the Agra airbase in an endeavour to film the event. The aircraft will fly along the central axis on a north-westerly direction at an approximate altitude of 25,000 feet, turn around at Khajuraho and land back at Agra.
This apart, a Mirage-2000 trainer will also take off from the Gwalior airbase and the pilot in the rear seat will take photographs as the fighter flies on an angular track to the central axis of the Sun's shadow.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
DTN News: This IAF Pilot Chased The Sun's Shadow
DTN News: This IAF Pilot Chased The Sun's Shadow
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media
(NSI News Source Info) NEW DELHI, India - July 22, 2009: New Delhi: For an Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter pilot chasing a target at Mach 2.5 or more than twice the speed of sound and yet not managing to play catc
h seems like something out of a sci-fi film.
But for Air Marshal S. Mukerji, chasing the sun's shadow during the total solar eclipse on Oct 24, 1995, that's exactly what happened. Heralding the IAF's participation in scientific study of total solar eclipse, Mukerji, presently the Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters and the then commanding officer of IAF's only (photo)MiG-25 reconnaissance squadron based at Bareilly, undertook a sortie in the giant plane to record the celestial event.
He got the rare opportunity to film the Sun's corona from an astounding altitude of 80,000 feet. "We flew at Mach 2.5 in the path of the eclipse at 80,000 feet along the planned central axis of the eclipse over Neem ka Thana (in Rajasthan's Sikar district)," recalled Mukerji of his historic sortie.
The sortie finds a mention in his flying log book simply as "Supersonic Profile". "The weather and visibility were not any constraints as clarity at stratospheric levels is far better than that nearer the ground," he said.
After the total solar eclipse of 1898 over India, the next occurrence took place in 1980. And in the subsequent total solar eclipse in 1995, the IAF assisted the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in their quest to film this celestial alignment.
This was possible with aviation speeds streaking way past the supersonic barrier. With a manual camera mounted above the instrument panel, a special lead and button provided to the other pilot, Wing Commander Y.S. Babu, seated in the front cockpit, the duo, with special solar filters on their visors flew straight towards the Sun for a minute and 24 seconds, photographing never-before seen images of the spectacle during the total solar eclipse.
"A lot of preparation went into the sortie. It had to be charted and axis programmed on the inertial navigation system, with briefings by scientists armed with NASA charts. The aircraft was first jacked up and the angle-of-attack simulated on the ground to harmonize the camera along the axis.
"In addition, the aircraft's belly camera could capture the shadow beneath that was 85 km in width," Mukerji explained.
During Wednesday's eclipse, a 10-member team of scientists and a camera team will be flying in an AN-32 transport aircraft from the Agra airbase in an endeavour to film the event. The aircraft will fly along the central axis on a north-westerly direction at an approximate altitude of 25,000 feet, turn around at Khajuraho and land back at Agra.
This apart, a Mirage-2000 trainer will also take off from the Gwalior airbase and the pilot in the rear seat will take photographs as the fighter flies on an angular track to the central axis of the Sun's shadow.
h seems like something out of a sci-fi film.
But for Air Marshal S. Mukerji, chasing the sun's shadow during the total solar eclipse on Oct 24, 1995, that's exactly what happened. Heralding the IAF's participation in scientific study of total solar eclipse, Mukerji, presently the Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters and the then commanding officer of IAF's only (photo)MiG-25 reconnaissance squadron based at Bareilly, undertook a sortie in the giant plane to record the celestial event.
He got the rare opportunity to film the Sun's corona from an astounding altitude of 80,000 feet. "We flew at Mach 2.5 in the path of the eclipse at 80,000 feet along the planned central axis of the eclipse over Neem ka Thana (in Rajasthan's Sikar district)," recalled Mukerji of his historic sortie.
The sortie finds a mention in his flying log book simply as "Supersonic Profile". "The weather and visibility were not any constraints as clarity at stratospheric levels is far better than that nearer the ground," he said.
After the total solar eclipse of 1898 over India, the next occurrence took place in 1980. And in the subsequent total solar eclipse in 1995, the IAF assisted the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in their quest to film this celestial alignment.
This was possible with aviation speeds streaking way past the supersonic barrier. With a manual camera mounted above the instrument panel, a special lead and button provided to the other pilot, Wing Commander Y.S. Babu, seated in the front cockpit, the duo, with special solar filters on their visors flew straight towards the Sun for a minute and 24 seconds, photographing never-before seen images of the spectacle during the total solar eclipse.
"A lot of preparation went into the sortie. It had to be charted and axis programmed on the inertial navigation system, with briefings by scientists armed with NASA charts. The aircraft was first jacked up and the angle-of-attack simulated on the ground to harmonize the camera along the axis.
"In addition, the aircraft's belly camera could capture the shadow beneath that was 85 km in width," Mukerji explained.
During Wednesday's eclipse, a 10-member team of scientists and a camera team will be flying in an AN-32 transport aircraft from the Agra airbase in an endeavour to film the event. The aircraft will fly along the central axis on a north-westerly direction at an approximate altitude of 25,000 feet, turn around at Khajuraho and land back at Agra.
This apart, a Mirage-2000 trainer will also take off from the Gwalior airbase and the pilot in the rear seat will take photographs as the fighter flies on an angular track to the central axis of the Sun's shadow.
DTN News: U.S. Senate Votes Against Funding For New F-22s
DTN News: U.S. Senate Votes Against Funding For New F-22s
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media
(NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - July 22, 2009: President Obama and Defense Secretary Robert Gates have won a standoff over funding the creation of new F-22 fighters. The Senate voted 58-40 Tuesday to take out $1.75 billion from the 2010 defense appropriations bill 
that would have gone toward building seven new F-22s.
that would have gone toward building seven new F-22s. Mr. Obama immediately hailed the decision, saying it will "better protect our troops." "I reject the notion that we have to waste billions of taxpayer dollars on outdated and unnecessary defense projects to keep this nation secure," he said. "…And that's why I'm grateful that the Senate just voted against an additional $1.75 billion to buy F-22 fighter jets that military experts and members of both parties say we do not need."
"At a time when we're fighting two wars and facing a serious deficit, this would have been an inexcusable waste of money," the president added.
"Every dollar of waste in our defense budget is a dollar we can't spend to support our troops or prepare for future threats or protect the American people." The president and defense secretary have strongly opposed the creation of new F-22s, $140 million fighter jets which have not performed a single mission in the conflicts in Iraq or Afghanistan.
The military already has 187 F-22s at its disposal. Before the vote, the president said he would veto the $680 billion defense bill if the final version included the F-22 funding, stating flatly, "we do not need these planes."
Gates has pushed for the military to spend money on tools better suited to fight the unconventional wars in which the U.S. is now engaged. He calls the F-22 "a niche, silver-bullet solution required for a limited number of scenarios."
But members of Congress, led by Republicans Sens. Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson of Georgia, have been pushing to keep the $1.75 billion for the planes in the bill. They have argued that more F-22s are needed and that many jobs depend on them being built.
Lockheed Martin, the maker of the F-22, has warned that 95,000 jobs in a variety of states are directly or indirectly tied to the manufacture of the plane. Sens.John McCain, a Republican, and Carl Levin, a Democrat, have fought to remove funding for new F-22s, characterizing a potential outlay as wasteful.
But Chris Dodd, a Democrat who backed the funding, suggested last week that Congress should be able to spend $1.75 billion to help the aerospace industry when the government is spending far more to bolster automakers.
DTN News: Israel Rejects Criticism Of East Jerusalem Settlements
DTN News: Israel Rejects Criticism Of East Jerusalem Settlements
*Source: DTN News / AFP
(NSI News Source Info) JERUSALEM, Israel - July 22, 2009: Israel on Tuesday rejected calls from the United States, the European Union and Russia to freeze settlements in annexed Arab east Jerusalem. 
A partial view of the Adei Ad outpost settlement in the northern West Bank on July 20, 2009. US Defence Secretary Robert Gates is to hold talks in Israel next week amid growing tensions between the two allies, a senior official said. Under new US President Barack Obama, Washington has repeatedly pressed Israel to stop all settlement activity, something that hawkish Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has so far refused to do.
"Israel acts and will act in line with its national interests and in particular for anything affecting Jerusalem. Our rights in Jerusalem, including its development, cannot be challenged," Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon said in a statement.
Eli Yishai, interior minister and deputy prime minister, said: "Israel is not a subsidiary of any other country in the world. The government and the state of Israel have the right to build anywhere in Israel when such projects have obtained all legal approvals."
Earlier on Tuesday, the European Union and Russia warned Israel not to violate Middle East peace plans by expanding settlements in east Jerusalem.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy also repeated "the need for a complete freeze" of settlement activity after talks with Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak, while Israel's ambassador to Paris was summoned by the foreign ministry.
The warnings come after it emerged that planning authorities had given the green light to a project to build 20 new apartments on the site of a former hotel in the Arab sector of the Holy City.
A partial view of the Adei Ad outpost settlement in the northern West Bank on July 20, 2009. US Defence Secretary Robert Gates is to hold talks in Israel next week amid growing tensions between the two allies, a senior official said. Under new US President Barack Obama, Washington has repeatedly pressed Israel to stop all settlement activity, something that hawkish Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has so far refused to do.
"Israel acts and will act in line with its national interests and in particular for anything affecting Jerusalem. Our rights in Jerusalem, including its development, cannot be challenged," Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon said in a statement.
Eli Yishai, interior minister and deputy prime minister, said: "Israel is not a subsidiary of any other country in the world. The government and the state of Israel have the right to build anywhere in Israel when such projects have obtained all legal approvals."
Earlier on Tuesday, the European Union and Russia warned Israel not to violate Middle East peace plans by expanding settlements in east Jerusalem.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy also repeated "the need for a complete freeze" of settlement activity after talks with Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak, while Israel's ambassador to Paris was summoned by the foreign ministry.
The warnings come after it emerged that planning authorities had given the green light to a project to build 20 new apartments on the site of a former hotel in the Arab sector of the Holy City.
DTN News: Yonex-Sunrise Present The Draw Ceremony For BWF World Championships 2009
DTN News: Yonex-Sunrise Present The Draw Ceremony For BWF World Championships 2009
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media
(NSI News Source Info) NEW DELHI, India - July 22, 2009: With the first ever World
Championships event to happen In India, Yonex-Sunrise the title presenters of the BWF World Championships’09 in association with BAI and BWF announced today the results of the draw for the tournament to take place in Hyderabad in August this year. The event was inaugurated by none other than the Chief Guest and Sports Minister, Dr. M.S. Gill. Also, present on the occasion were other eminent personalities from the sports fraternity to make the draw announcements at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi followed by the unveiling of Team India uniforms!
Championships event to happen In India, Yonex-Sunrise the title presenters of the BWF World Championships’09 in association with BAI and BWF announced today the results of the draw for the tournament to take place in Hyderabad in August this year. The event was inaugurated by none other than the Chief Guest and Sports Minister, Dr. M.S. Gill. Also, present on the occasion were other eminent personalities from the sports fraternity to make the draw announcements at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi followed by the unveiling of Team India uniforms!
The draws for the following categories were announced:
1. Men’s Singles – Dr. M.S.Gill - Sports Minister of India
2. Women’s Singles – Mr. Suresh Kalmadi-President, Indian Olympic Association
3. Men’s Double – Mr. Mike Fennell–President, Commonwealth Games Federation
4. Women’s Doubles – Ms. Sindhushree .Khullar Secretary (Ministry of Sports)
5. Mixed Doubles – Mr. Paisan Rangsikitpho, Deputy President, Badminton World Federation
Talking about Badminton in our country spoke, Mr. V.K.Verma President, BAI, “The future for Badminton in India looks very promising with the growing and improved infrastructural and training facilities. We are very confident that there is no dearth of talent in the country and with the right training and access to World Class equipments and facilities provided by YONEX-Sunrise, India can churn out World Champions! The recent example would be none other than Saina Nehwal, who has beaten the best in the world and is now, not only in the World Top 10, but has also achieved a ranking of World No.6! We look forward to her being in the Top 3 Players!”
From L-R - Mr. D.K.Seth- CMD, Sunrise Co. PTE.Ltd; Mr. Paisan Rangsikitpho - Deputy President, Badminton World Federation; Mr. Mike Fennell–President, Commonwealth Games Federation; Mr. Suresh Kalmadi - President, Indian Olympic Association; Hon'ble Sports Minister - Dr. M.S.Gill; Ms. Sindhushree . Khullar Secretary (Ministry of Sports); Mr. V.K.Verma - President, Badminton Association of India at the draw ceremony for the YONEX-Sunrise BWF World Championships 2009
Added Mr. D.K.Seth, Managing Director, Sunrise & Co. (PTE) Ltd, “The BWF World Championships is a tournament which sees participation from the best players across the world who come together to compete for the ultimate honor. With the World No.1 badminton brand YONEX as the backbone for the sport, we strongly believe in providing the best equipment and support for nurturing young talent in badminton. This year’s BWF World Championships 2009 will be a great platform for some of them to showcase their talent in an international arena. Team India, will be coached by the veteran badminton player, Pulella Gopichand and we are eagerly looking forward to seeing some super performances!”
The championship is to be held at Hyderabad from August 10-16, 2009, will see around 500 participants from 45 countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Denmark, Japan, China, Sweden, Vietnam, England, Korea, France, Austria, Belgium, Thailand etc. competing for the top honors. Leading players like Taufik Hidayat (Indonesia), Lee Chong Wei (Malaysia), Peter Gade (Denmark) and Saina Nehwal (India) will also be participating in the tournament.
About BWF World Championships:
The BWF World Championships is held every year except for the year of an Olympic Games. It is a showcase of the very best in the sport and it determines the World Champions in each of the five disciplines – men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles and mixed doubles. The first World Championships was hosted in Malmo Sweden in 1977, and a Championship was held every three years until 1983, after which, it became a biennial event.
Since 2005 however, the BWF World Championships has become an annual tournament, being hosted every year except in the year of the Olympic Games.
The BWF World Championships is an individual event and each Member Association is invited to enter their players in the men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles and the mixed doubles events. For each event, the third place winner gets a bronze medal, the runner-up a silver and the winner is awarded a gold medal and title “World Champion”.
About YONEX:
Yonex the No. 1 in world badminton is also the undisputed market leader in India and has established itself firmly in the local sports firmament. YONEX is a world leader in racquet and shaft technology.
Yonex has also made its name as a trusted equipment supplier to major international events like Sydney Olympics and Atlanta Centennial Olympic games from the year 1992 up till date. It has been chosen as the official supplier to the BWF Badminton Asia Confederation, Olympic Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, South East Asian Games and majority of badminton tournaments around the world. 
Mr. Prakash Padukone, Mr. Pullela Gopichand and Mr. D.K.Seth - CMD, Sunrise Co. PTE.Ltd unveiling the new uniform for team India at the draw ceremony for the YONEX - Sunrise BWF World Championships
Most of the world’s top badminton players use YONEX as their racquet of choice like Taufik Hidayat, Lee Chong Wei, Peter Gade, Saina Nehwal etc. In the 2004 Olympics, 75% of badminton players used YONEX racquets and 22 out of 24 medals were won by YONEX equipped players. In the 2008 Olympics, all 24 out of 24, 100% medals were won by YONEX equipped players.
About Sunrise & Co. PTE Ltd.:
Sunrise & Company PTE Ltd. is a multinational conglomerate focused on distribution & wholesale of branded sporting equipment, accessories, sports apparels and sports footwear. The group has network companies and offices in China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Phillipines, Singapore & Vietnam. Apart from these, the group also has business relations in Brunei, Macau & Sri Lanka.
Sunrise & Company PTE Ltd. was established in 1979. The company obtained the sole agency rights for the distribution of internationally acclaimed YONEX products in countries across Asia. Sunrise, along with YONEX, sponsors international badminton tournaments in various countries within the company's network. They have also been the suppliers of the official attire to the national contingents of several countries participating in the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and SEA Games.
DTN News: Brazil Provides Details Of Nuclear Submarine Program
DTN News: Brazil Provides Details Of Nuclear Submarine Program
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media
(NSI News Source Info) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - July 22, 2009: Given the wrong information recently published in the media on the development program of the Brazilian 
nuclear-powered submarine, which will be developed in partnership with France, and given undue comparisons between this partnership and a previous proposal by the German company HDW, based on the IKL-214 model, the Defense Ministry is issuing the following clarification:
nuclear-powered submarine, which will be developed in partnership with France, and given undue comparisons between this partnership and a previous proposal by the German company HDW, based on the IKL-214 model, the Defense Ministry is issuing the following clarification: The two projects are not comparable
The German proposal was only for the construction of two conventional submarines (diesel-electric propulsion), without the evolution to a nuclear-powered submarine, because Germany does not produce any (it has zero percent of this market). Also there would have been some transfer of technology, design, and maintenance work, but only for construction purposes, and in a limited way.
The French proposal, from DCNS, includes the construction in Brazil of four Scorpène conventional submarines, which will allow the country to develop a submarine with nuclear propulsion, and it includes the transfer of all related technologies, not only for construction of the boats but also for the entire project, including the combat systems.
The proposal also includes the design and construction of a site dedicated to the manufacture of nuclear-propelled submarines (and conventional ones as well) and a new naval base able to house them. The nuclear part of submarine is fully national, developed by the Brazilian Navy in a research and development program started in the 1970s.
Restrictions on maintenance
Germany does not transfer technology for the design or maintenance of submarines. In the construction of the current submarines that Brazil operates (IKL-209), the forward section (bow), which houses the tubes for launching torpedoes, was manufactured in Germany and the maintenance of combat systems (sonar, system management fire, etc.) can be made only with the presence of German technicians.
Yard and base are available since 1993
The construction of a new yard and a new base in Sepetiba (Rio de Janeiro state) for nuclear-powered submarines is provided by the Navy since 1993, making it inconsistent to claim that it is an unnecessary expense imposed by the French.
Claiming that this work is unnecessary means ignoring the fact that nuclear-propelled submarine that can only be built on dedicated sites that meet quite specific technological and environmental requirements and which no existing shipyard in Brazil can satisfy. Furthermore, the current conventional submarine base in the Bay of Guanabara does not provide sufficient depth for a nuclear-powered submarine.
Brazil demanded that the base and the shipyard be constructed by a Brazilian company having responsibility for the project. France’s DCNS chose, freely, its partner and selected the Odebrecht construction company. Regardless of who was responsible for the project, the secrecy of the project would have been maintained, as maps of military installations are not subject to disclosure required by a public tender.
Design similar to that of nuclear submarine
The hull of the Scorpène submarine has the typical design of a nuclear-propelled submarine, and employs technology developed in the design of the submarine "Barracuda", a new class of French nuclear attack submarines still under construction. This will facilitate the evolution of Scorpene to our nuclear-powered submarine. Furthermore, the Brazilian Navy has extensive documentation that shows the high degree of satisfaction of the Chilean Navy with the Scorpène conventional submarine operated by that country.
Nationalization of 36 thousand items
On the contract with France, the national content index reaches 20%, representing the production in Brazil of more than 36,000 items for the submarine, including complex systems, in addition to the transfer of technology to domestic companies. There are already more than thirty approved Brazilian companies, and several others are in the process of qualification. Any additional parts will be purchased directly from the manufacturers, which reduces costs.
The evolution of the submarine program in Brazil
The Brazil-France agreement should be viewed as a phase of a program initiated by the Brazilian Navy three decades ago, with the objective of enabling the country to build nuclear-propelled submarines. It is not therefore a simple transaction of buying new equipment. While we developed the technology for a nuclear reactor to propel the submarine at the end of the 1970s, the Navy began a program of construction of conventional submarines in Brazil, in agreement with HDW of Germany.
Of the five IKL-209 model submarines provided under that agreement, the first was built in Germany while the remaining four were manufactured in the Navy Arsenal in Rio de Janeiro (AMRJ). The Tikuna is the most modern of the group. Despite the advances made by the German partnership with Brazil, the country still lacks the technology to develop projects, for maintenance of the equipment, and for development of the nuclear-propelled submarine.
For this reason, Brazil has sought partnerships that allow this new and fundamental step forward in our defense strategy. The agreement with the French will allow the construction of each of the four conventional submarines in increasing degrees of national involvement, up to the construction of nuclear-propelled submarine, with the technological skills acquired from DCNS.
The importance of nuclear submarines to Brazil
The National Defense Strategy prioritizes the ability to deny the use of the sea near our territory as an essential element of our defense.
Brazil needs both conventional and nuclear-powered submarines to first perform this task and then to protect its coastline, including the pre-salt-water area beyond the Amazon. For the protection of our extensive maritime border, having a conventionally-armed but nuclear-powered submarine is an essential element of this strategy.
The project will also allow the transfer of vital dual-use technologies which will further increase the competitiveness of Brazilian industry, strengthening of the main objectives of the National Defense Strategy, which is integrated into more and more to the national strategy of development.
DTN News: Russia, South Korea Discuss Maintenance Agreement
DTN News: Russia, South Korea Discuss Maintenance Agreement
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media
(NSI News Source Info) MOSCOW, Russia - July 22, 2009: Russia and South Korea are negotiating a military cooperation agreement on the mainten
ance of equipment supplied by Moscow to Seoul, Russian Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov said July 21.
Talks with his South Korean counterpart Lee Sang-Hee focused on an accord "on the repair of weapons" sent from Russia to Seoul, Serdyukov said, cited by Russian news agencies.
Following the Moscow talks, Sang-Hee declared himself in favor of increased military cooperation between the two countries to guarantee security on the Korean peninsula and across Southeast Asia.
"I hope this meeting marks a step forward in our relations," he said, cited by Russian news agencies.
Both ministers repeated their opposition to nuclear-armed North Korea, which launched a second nuclear test in May.
ance of equipment supplied by Moscow to Seoul, Russian Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov said July 21.
Talks with his South Korean counterpart Lee Sang-Hee focused on an accord "on the repair of weapons" sent from Russia to Seoul, Serdyukov said, cited by Russian news agencies.
Following the Moscow talks, Sang-Hee declared himself in favor of increased military cooperation between the two countries to guarantee security on the Korean peninsula and across Southeast Asia.
"I hope this meeting marks a step forward in our relations," he said, cited by Russian news agencies.
Both ministers repeated their opposition to nuclear-armed North Korea, which launched a second nuclear test in May.
DTN News: Embraer Takes Two Of Its Newest Executive Jets To Oshkosh
DTN News: Embraer Takes Two Of Its Newest Executive Jets To Oshkosh
*A Phenom 100 jet and a Phenom 300 mock-up will be on display at EAA AirVenture 2009
*Source: DTN News / EMBRAER
(NSI News Source Info) São José dos Campos - July 22, 2009: Embraer will be present for the fourth consecutive year at the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin,USA. 
The Embraer Phenom 100 is a Very Light Jet (VLJ) developed by Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer. It has a capacity for 4 passengers in its normal configuration, but it can carry up to 6-7 passengers with a single crew, optional side facing seat and belted toilet. It has a maximum flying range of 1,178 nautical miles with 4 occupants and NBAA IFR Reserves. As of 1 January 2009, its price is US$ 3.6 million, with the first aircraft delivered in December 2008. The fourteenth plane was acquired on March, 25th 2009, by a private pilot.
The annual event, in its 57th edition, is one of the world’s most famous international
gatherings for aviation enthusiasts (www.AirVenture.org), and will be held July 27 to August 2,from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..
A Phenom 100 entry level jet will be displayed for the first timeat the show, as well as a Phenom 300 light jet full-size mock-up, at the Company’s newlocation: Static #347, AeroShell Square.
“The Phenom 100’s debut at this year’s EAA AirVenture is of particular significance, sinceits first flight occurred just two short years ago, at the same time as Oshkosh 2007,” said
Ernest Edwards, Embraer Vice President, Marketing and Sales U.S.A., Canada, Mexico, andthe Caribbean – Executive Jets.
“The Phenom 100 was certified on schedule and met, orexceeded, many of its design goals, making it the fastest aircraft, with the longest range andlargest cabin in its class.”
Embraer will host a press briefing on Wednesday, July 29, at 11:00 a.m., at the EAA Press Headquarters located north of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) tower.
Ernie Edwardswill present the latest achievements of the Company’s expanded executive jets portfolio, consisting of the entry level Phenom 100, the light Phenom 300, the midlight Legacy 450, themidsize Legacy 500, the super midsize Legacy 600, and the ultra-large Lineage 1000 jets.
The first deliveries of the Phenom 100 began in December 2008, with very positive feedback from customers.
The Phenom 300 is expected to be certified before the end of this year, whenit will also enter service. The new Legacy 500 and the Legacy 450 are expected to becomeoperational in the second half of 2012 and 2013, respectively.
The Legacy 600 has been inservice since 2002, with more than 170 jets in 26 countries, and the first Lineage 1000, whichis the largest aircraft in the portfolio, was delivered last May.
DTN News: General Dynamics Awarded $45 Million For Egyptian Abrams Tank-Related Work
DTN News: General Dynamics Awarded $45 Million For Egyptian Abrams Tank-Related Work
*Source: DTN News / General Dynamics
(NSI News Source Info) STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. - July 22, 2009: The U.S. TACOM Lifecycle Management Command has awarded General Dynamics Land Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), a $45 million contract for the Egyptian tank co-production program.
US military aid finances most of Egypt's big-ticket defense procurements - $1.3 billion annually for several years. Large projects underway include the M1A1 Abrams tank manufacturing facility and the M88A2 coproduction program.
Egypt obtained US approval in 1984 to build a factory to produce new tanks. Under the initial agreement, the Egyptians would assemble 524 M1A1 tanks, and Egyptian officials hoped that this number would eventually rise to 1,500 tanks. Six production cycles were established initially, with each increment increasing the level of technology from General Dynamics Land Systems. Beginning in mid-1992, Egypt started assembling M1A1 tank components imported from the United States. Egypt manufactured about 40% and imported 60% of the components for the 555 tanks produced. The cost was estimated at $3.2 billion. The Egyptians also will produce the 120-mm cannon as well as an increasing number of parts for the tank. Egyptian officials say the goal is to make Cairo self-sufficient in tank production.
On March 11, 1999, Defense Secretary Cohen announced a $3.2 billion arms sale to Egypt that includes 24 F-16 aircraft, 200 M-1 tanks, and a Patriot missile battery. Under the proposal announced in March 1999, Egypt would assemble another 200 M1 tanks.
Work to be performed under the contract includes manufacturing technical assistance on M1A1 Abrams tanks at the Egyptian tank plant and supplying component equipment such as tools, gauges, fixtures and machines. This award is in support of the tenth increment of the Egyptian co-production program.
Since 1992, General Dynamics has provided components for kits used in the co-production program. The parts are shipped to a production facility near Cairo, Egypt, where the tanks are manufactured for the Egyptian Land Forces. Work on the components will be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich., with completion estimated for December 2012.
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs approximately 92,900 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies.
More information about the company is available on the Internet at www.generaldynamics.com.
US military aid finances most of Egypt's big-ticket defense procurements - $1.3 billion annually for several years. Large projects underway include the M1A1 Abrams tank manufacturing facility and the M88A2 coproduction program.
Egypt obtained US approval in 1984 to build a factory to produce new tanks. Under the initial agreement, the Egyptians would assemble 524 M1A1 tanks, and Egyptian officials hoped that this number would eventually rise to 1,500 tanks. Six production cycles were established initially, with each increment increasing the level of technology from General Dynamics Land Systems. Beginning in mid-1992, Egypt started assembling M1A1 tank components imported from the United States. Egypt manufactured about 40% and imported 60% of the components for the 555 tanks produced. The cost was estimated at $3.2 billion. The Egyptians also will produce the 120-mm cannon as well as an increasing number of parts for the tank. Egyptian officials say the goal is to make Cairo self-sufficient in tank production.
On March 11, 1999, Defense Secretary Cohen announced a $3.2 billion arms sale to Egypt that includes 24 F-16 aircraft, 200 M-1 tanks, and a Patriot missile battery. Under the proposal announced in March 1999, Egypt would assemble another 200 M1 tanks.
Work to be performed under the contract includes manufacturing technical assistance on M1A1 Abrams tanks at the Egyptian tank plant and supplying component equipment such as tools, gauges, fixtures and machines. This award is in support of the tenth increment of the Egyptian co-production program.
Since 1992, General Dynamics has provided components for kits used in the co-production program. The parts are shipped to a production facility near Cairo, Egypt, where the tanks are manufactured for the Egyptian Land Forces. Work on the components will be performed in Sterling Heights, Mich., with completion estimated for December 2012.
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs approximately 92,900 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies.
More information about the company is available on the Internet at www.generaldynamics.com.
DTN News: Oshkosh Defense Brings Proven Production, Engineering Capabilities To FMTV Competitive Rebuy Bid
DTN News: Oshkosh Defense Brings Proven Production, Engineering Capabilities To FMTV Competitive Rebuy Bid
*Source: DTN News / Oshkosh Corporation
(NSI News Source Info) OSHKOSH, Wis. - July 22, 2009: As a leading designer and manufacturer of tactical military vehicles, Oshkosh Defense, a divisi
on of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), brings a history of proven production and engineering capabilities to its bid for the U.S. Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) competitive rebuy – a five-year, multibillion dollar contract award for the production of an estimated 23,000 vehicles and trailers.
Having provided military vehicles since 1942 and performed continuous production of military vehicles since 1970, Oshkosh Defense’s robust manufacturing capabilities and production capacity will allow the company to meet or exceed the FMTV schedule requirements. Manufacturing operations have been coordinated to accommodate production of the recently awarded MRAP All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) contract as well as the FMTV, and the increase of resources due to the M-ATV contract will directly benefit the FMTV rebuy. Oshkosh Defense will be able to meet the needs of these and all other programs, in addition to any production surges that may be required.
“Decades of producing high-performance military vehicles for the U.S. Armed Forces have proven our ability to consistently deliver vehicles on time, in the quantities needed and at a competitive price,” said Andy Hove, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “Existing supplier commonality and our experience in producing vehicles similar to every variant involved in the FMTV rebuy would allow us to seamlessly incorporate this program into our production lines, ensuring the transition would be low risk.”
A highly skilled in-house engineering team coupled with an experienced production workforce help Oshkosh continually improve vehicle quality levels through design innovations, assembly process improvements and lean manufacturing. Because of Oshkosh’s engineering prowess and tactical wheeled vehicle experience, it has had 14 different vehicle types tested and approved by the government.
The company was the first and only truck manufacturer to win the Department of Defense’s David Packard Acquisition Excellence Award for its work with the U.S. military on the Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR). Among other things, the military recognized Oshkosh for reducing vehicle life cycle costs, being efficient and responsive in the acquisition process, and integrating commercial technology into the MTVR.
Oshkosh Defense is the only current manufacturer of medium and heavy tactical wheeled vehicles in the U.S. defense industry, having produced more than 67,000 new vehicles in its manufacturing facilities. The company’s use of an advanced integrated assembly line has allowed for the simultaneous production of as many as 10 vehicle models with 29 variations.
About Oshkosh DefenseOshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation, is an industry-leading global designer and manufacturer of tactical military trucks and armored wheeled vehicles, delivering a full product line of conventional and hybrid vehicles, advanced armor options, proprietary suspensions and vehicles with payloads that can exceed 70 tons. Oshkosh Defense provides a global service and supply network including full life-cycle support and remanufacturing, and its vehicles are recognized the world over for superior performance, reliability and protection. For more information, visit www.oshkoshdefense.com.
About Oshkosh CorporationOshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corporation manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Medtec®, Jerr-Dan®, BAI™, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline™, SMIT™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. The Oshkosh brands are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount. For more information, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com.
on of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), brings a history of proven production and engineering capabilities to its bid for the U.S. Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) competitive rebuy – a five-year, multibillion dollar contract award for the production of an estimated 23,000 vehicles and trailers.
Having provided military vehicles since 1942 and performed continuous production of military vehicles since 1970, Oshkosh Defense’s robust manufacturing capabilities and production capacity will allow the company to meet or exceed the FMTV schedule requirements. Manufacturing operations have been coordinated to accommodate production of the recently awarded MRAP All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) contract as well as the FMTV, and the increase of resources due to the M-ATV contract will directly benefit the FMTV rebuy. Oshkosh Defense will be able to meet the needs of these and all other programs, in addition to any production surges that may be required.
“Decades of producing high-performance military vehicles for the U.S. Armed Forces have proven our ability to consistently deliver vehicles on time, in the quantities needed and at a competitive price,” said Andy Hove, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Defense. “Existing supplier commonality and our experience in producing vehicles similar to every variant involved in the FMTV rebuy would allow us to seamlessly incorporate this program into our production lines, ensuring the transition would be low risk.”
A highly skilled in-house engineering team coupled with an experienced production workforce help Oshkosh continually improve vehicle quality levels through design innovations, assembly process improvements and lean manufacturing. Because of Oshkosh’s engineering prowess and tactical wheeled vehicle experience, it has had 14 different vehicle types tested and approved by the government.
The company was the first and only truck manufacturer to win the Department of Defense’s David Packard Acquisition Excellence Award for its work with the U.S. military on the Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR). Among other things, the military recognized Oshkosh for reducing vehicle life cycle costs, being efficient and responsive in the acquisition process, and integrating commercial technology into the MTVR.
Oshkosh Defense is the only current manufacturer of medium and heavy tactical wheeled vehicles in the U.S. defense industry, having produced more than 67,000 new vehicles in its manufacturing facilities. The company’s use of an advanced integrated assembly line has allowed for the simultaneous production of as many as 10 vehicle models with 29 variations.
About Oshkosh DefenseOshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation, is an industry-leading global designer and manufacturer of tactical military trucks and armored wheeled vehicles, delivering a full product line of conventional and hybrid vehicles, advanced armor options, proprietary suspensions and vehicles with payloads that can exceed 70 tons. Oshkosh Defense provides a global service and supply network including full life-cycle support and remanufacturing, and its vehicles are recognized the world over for superior performance, reliability and protection. For more information, visit www.oshkoshdefense.com.
About Oshkosh CorporationOshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corporation manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Medtec®, Jerr-Dan®, BAI™, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline™, SMIT™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. The Oshkosh brands are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount. For more information, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com. DTN News: First Boeing 747-8 Freighter Takes Shape
DTN News: First Boeing 747-8 Freighter Takes Shape
*Source: DTN News / Boeing
(NSI News Source Info) EVERETT, Wash., - July 22, 2009: Boeing (NYSE: BA) took a major step closer this week toward completing the assembly of the first 747-8 Freighter as mechanics at the factory in Everett, Wash. loaded the forward and aft fuselage sections to join with the wing and center section. 
The 747-8 Freighter is the new high-capacity 747 that will give cargo operators the lowest operating costs and best economics of any freighter airplane while providing enhanced environmental performance. Boeing has secured 78 orders from leading cargo operators for the new 747-8 Freighter. Cargolux, Nippon Cargo Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines, Atlas Air, Cathay Pacific, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Emirates SkyCargo, Guggenheim and Korean Air all have placed orders for the airplane.
"It is exciting to see this airplane taking shape," said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager of the 747 Program. "The 747-8 is the largest commercial jet airplane we have assembled. This final body join provides us the first real look at the size of the 747-8 Freighter."
The 747-8 Freighter is 250 feet, 2 inches (76.3 m) long, which is 18 feet and 4 inches (5.6 m) longer than the 747-400 Freighter. The stretch provides customers with 16 percent more revenue cargo volume compared to its predecessor. That translates to four additional main-deck pallets and three additional lower-hold pallets.
The 747-8 Freighter is the new high-capacity 747 that will give cargo operators the lowest operating costs and best economics of any freighter airplane while providing enhanced environmental performance. Boeing has secured 78 orders from leading cargo operators for the new 747-8 Freighter. Cargolux, Nippon Cargo Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines, Atlas Air, Cathay Pacific, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Emirates SkyCargo, Guggenheim and Korean Air all have placed orders for the airplane.
The 747-8 Freighter is the new high-capacity 747 that will give cargo operators the lowest operating costs and best economics of any freighter airplane while providing enhanced environmental performance. Boeing has secured 78 orders from leading cargo operators for the new 747-8 Freighter. Cargolux, Nippon Cargo Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines, Atlas Air, Cathay Pacific, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Emirates SkyCargo, Guggenheim and Korean Air all have placed orders for the airplane.
"It is exciting to see this airplane taking shape," said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager of the 747 Program. "The 747-8 is the largest commercial jet airplane we have assembled. This final body join provides us the first real look at the size of the 747-8 Freighter."
The 747-8 Freighter is 250 feet, 2 inches (76.3 m) long, which is 18 feet and 4 inches (5.6 m) longer than the 747-400 Freighter. The stretch provides customers with 16 percent more revenue cargo volume compared to its predecessor. That translates to four additional main-deck pallets and three additional lower-hold pallets.
The 747-8 Freighter is the new high-capacity 747 that will give cargo operators the lowest operating costs and best economics of any freighter airplane while providing enhanced environmental performance. Boeing has secured 78 orders from leading cargo operators for the new 747-8 Freighter. Cargolux, Nippon Cargo Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines, Atlas Air, Cathay Pacific, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, Emirates SkyCargo, Guggenheim and Korean Air all have placed orders for the airplane.
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