Tuesday, July 28, 2009

DTN News: New Missions for Japan ~ To Maintain Hi-Tech Supply Of F-22 Raptor

DTN News: New Missions for Japan ~ To Maintain Hi-Tech Supply Of F-22 Raptor
*Source: DTN News / Aviation Week By David A. Fulghum (NSI News Source Info) TOKYO, Japan - July 28, 2009: The Japanese government has its worries - North Korean ballistic missiles, advanced Chinese fighters and cruise missiles, as well as disputed islands and a dearth of bases and modern aircraft to protect them. These problems are coupled with a military force structure that cannot expand and a defense budget that is unlikely to grow. Such pressures are forcing the government to carefully sort through conflicting priorities that include: · What specifically should be protected? · What are the modernization options? · How should an international expeditionary force be fielded that would not be seen as a military threat by its neighbors? The government also is trying to shake off the need to rely so heavily on Japanese industry, which has produced, for example, extremely expensive versions of the F-16 fighter and the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter. To date, Japan has modernized with Aegis destroyers and Patriot PAC-3 interceptors to counter ballistic missiles; KC-767 aerial tankers to extend deployment ranges, and E-767 AWACS to help monitor the approaches to the mainland. However, the military does not have a supersonic cruise fighter like the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor to chase down cruise missiles and replace the geriatric F-4J Phantoms, or long-endurance UAVs to ensure constant monitoring of islands and sea lanes that stretch almost to China.
Also missing are low-collateral-damage, high-precision guided weapons to discourage invaders of far-away islands and long-range airlifters to allow participation in international activities such as anti-piracy operations in the Indian Ocean or natural-disaster relief to neighboring countries. Meanwhile, political and budgetary problems in the U.S. and an unstable government in Japan make F-22 acquisition a long shot.
Killing production for the U.S. Air Force would make the aircraft too expensive for the Japanese and focus the defense ministry on alternatives such as the Eurofighter Typhoon. The latter, along with the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, will constitute Britain's high-low mix of advanced fighters.
The Japanese government reportedly showed interest in buying F-22s in its Replacement-Fighter program for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). If it were to occur, it would most likely involve a "watered-down" export variant while still retaining most of its advanced avionics and stealth characteristics. However, such a proposal would still need approval from the Pentagon, State Department and Congress. In addition the high per aircraft costs and the very high operating expenses would require a lifting of the popular 1 percent of GDP military budget ceiling in Japan. On 9 June 2009, Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said that Japan still seeks the F-22. On 21 July 2009, the United States Senate voted in favor of ending F-22 production. The House had budgeted for an additional 12 aircraft. The two versions of the 2010 budget must now be resolved in conference before facing President Obama who has threatened to veto any additional aircraft. Moreover, getting the green light for the F-22 from the Japanese parliament is not a sure thing. Because of his growing unpopularity - underscored by a big loss by his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in local elections this month - Prime Minister Taro Aso called for a general election on Aug. 30, more than a month earlier than anticipated. The public discontent with Aso and the LDP is fed by a prolonged recession, which could affect defense acquisition.
"The Japanese want the F-22," says Lt. Gen. Chip Utterback, commander of the 13th Air Force at Hickam AFB, Hawaii. "But they are actually looking for a capability and not a particular aircraft. It's just that the F-22 is the only fighter in the world that can do what they want. They see the [foreign] threat horizon not getting any better. They understand that as [foreign] capabilities increase, they will need the ability to look and shoot from a long way off". "I got to fly the Su-30MKI [the Indian variant of China's Su-30MKK]," he says. "I did everything I possibly could to put it out of control and couldn't do it. It's extremely stable and responsive. It's much more reliable and capable than the MiG-29." In general, the Japanese want the Raptor's supersonic cruise (about Mach 1.6) and an operational altitude of 65,000 ft. for a larger radar and electronic surveillance footprint. Other attractions of the Raptor are an active, electronically scanned array radar with a range of about 130 mi. - which is, incidentally, about the range from the western edge of the Japanese Southwest Air Div.'s area of responsibility and the east coast of China - and the ability to find small objects such as cruise missiles and other stealthy aircraft. The Raptor also provides the radar reflectivity of a steel marble; this would allow it to close in on invading aircraft without being detected. "The F-22 gives the U.S. an ability to get inside the [enemy's air defense] threat rings - to be offensive and to do things we can't do with conventional fighters," Utterback says. "The Japanese have a different perspective. They want to optimize their capabilities to defend the homeland. F-22 gives them that standoff defensive capability. The F-35 does not. "The Japanese are good pilots and tactically capable," he says. "I have been flying with them since 1979. Today, it is a competent and capable air force, and they are imaginative in their tactics." In Japan, there has always been the discussion of whether to focus on an expeditionary military or one that is focused on the defense of Japan. The question is, Can the budget afford both? "An easy case can be made that if you target your investments the right way - whether it be lift, sustainment, ISR or C4 systems - you can build capability that gives you both options," says a Tokyo-based U.S. official who monitors Japan's defense activities. "I believe the Japanese government is dedicated to both sets of missions. How they get there will be the challenge. They've already gone down the path of inflight refueling [KC-767], long-range lift [C-X], and the Huaga-class destroyer with helicopter capability that can be used for humanitarian operations. Completing those capabilities will drive budget discussions." "In balancing force structure, a smaller force with fifth-generation stealth capability begins to make sense when you're defending your home island," says Utterback. "For us, smaller numbers impact on the ability to be forward. They could do it with less." Japanese industry's choke hold on defense spending appears to have slackened owing to the pressures of functioning in a global economy. "[Japanese-based] industry remains an important factor in procurement decisions, but it's not the overarching force it used to be," says the U.S. official. "Twenty years ago when the Japan Air Self-Defense Force [JASDF] didn't have such a critical operational role working with the U.S. in responding to threats, there was a bit more willingness to indulge in domestic production as a priority. Now the overriding concern is operational effectiveness and capabilities."
An example of the new formula is Japan's spin-up of a ballistic missile defense force. The government relaxed export controls, which allowed Japanese and U.S. industry to jointly develop the Block 2 Standard Missile-3. The aim is to find ways to procure the best systems while allowing Japanese industry to work with partners to expand their markets and develop access to new technology. "We share a desire to see Japan have a healthy defense industrial base," the U.S. official notes. "In fact, we'd like to access it more because Japan excels in many areas, and we rely on them for many systems. The best example is research and development funding for [continuing upgrades to] the SM-3 program. Although there was a hit to the U.S. ballistic missile defense budget, Defense Secretary [Robert] Gates expressed a clear commitment to continue and even accelerate the SM-3 program, which in turn relies on Japan's know-how and investments. (It also is the only country besides the U.S. that produces Patriot missile parts.) Now Japan can do more on both the production and R&D sides. It is good for both our industries and allows us to make decisions based on capabilities and requirements." Symbolic of the change is the Japanese government's decision to significantly curtail the AH-64 Apache program. It is built in a coproduction program that is much more expensive than buying it off-the-shelf. "That was a shot across the bow in terms of the new direction," the U.S. official says. "It will be interesting to see if it gets industrial buy-in." A litmus test for the new acquisition model may be the F-X and F-XX programs. As conceived, the F-X would notionally be 40-50 high-performance supercruise fighters, similar to the F-22 or the Typhoon, followed by the F-XX program that has requirements to match the F-35 JSF. If the F-22 is eventually approved for export, there is very little that Japanese industry would be able to build for it. Defense officials say Japan needs a high-speed, high-altitude fighter to cover its massive, island-rich area of responsibility that stretches to within 150 mi. of China. "The [Japanese] moved F-15s to Okinawa a couple of months ago to replace the F-4s," the U.S. official says. "That suggests how important the JASDF considers that area of operations. There has been a lot of attention paid to their desire for the F-22s. There was a peak of interest after Secretary Gates's remarks about the Fiscal 2010 budget, that the U.S. Air Force would stake its future on the F-35. As alliance partners, both countries are concerned about interoperability, especially now that they are facing an increasingly complicated security environment and tight budgets." Interoperability, joint basing, training and operations are part of the chosen path. There has been progress in making Japanese bases available for the dispersion of U.S. and allied aircraft in a military emergency. Part of the 2006 package of realignment agreements was an aviation training relocation project. It takes fighters temporarily to bases to which the U.S. has not before had access to conduct joint training with the Japanese air force. The U.S. and Japan would like to expand this program because of the flexibility gained by deploying and rotating, which improves emergency response. Anti-piracy operations constitute another area that is driving political and policy decisions on security. Japanese involvement also would provide justification for buying aerial tankers, maritime patrol aircraft and long-range transports. "This is a watershed event for Japan," the U.S. official says. "The public views this as the Japan Self-Defense Forces doing something halfway around the world that is for the protection of Japanese lives and interests." How the nation chooses to invest its military funding will be of international interest. For example, long-range airlift in still in its infancy. But with operating forces based thousands of miles away, the issues of communications, supply and sustainment arise. In addition, the need is validated for an expeditionary capability that can be used for missions such as humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

DTN News: HAL Signs Contract With Airbus For Supplying 2000 Doors

DTN News: HAL Signs Contract With Airbus For Supplying 2000 Doors *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media
(NSI News Source Info) NEW DELHI, India - July 28, 2009: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a follow-on contract with Airbus for supplying 2000 doors for planes of the European aircraft manufacturer, the government said today.
"A follow-on contract has been concluded with Airbus for supply of forward PAX doors for different variants of Airbus aircraft," Minister of State for Defence M M Pallam Raju said in reply to a question in Rajya Sabha.
Airbus had earlier awarded a contract to HAL for supplying 1460 shipsets, which the Defence sector undertaking is likely to complete by January, 2010.
The minister, however, denied any plans of manufacturing a civilian aircraft in collaboration with Airbus.
"There is no proposal for manufacture of civil aircraft in the country in collaboration with Airbus industries or other firms," Raju said.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited based in Bangalore, India, is one of Asia's largest aerospace companies. Under the management of the Indian Ministry of Defence, this public sector company is mainly involved in aerospace industry, which includes manufacturing and assembling aircraft, navigation and related communication equipment, as well as operating airports. HAL built the first military aircraft in South Asia and is currently involved in the design, fabrication and assembly of aircraft, jet engines, helicopters and their components and spares. It has several facilities throughout India including Nasik, Korwa, Kanpur, Koraput, Lucknow, and Hyderabad. The German engineer Kurt Tank designed the HF-24 Marut fighter-bomber, the first fighter aircraft made in India. Hindustan Aeronautics has a long history of collaboration with several other international and domestic aerospace agencies such as the Airbus Industries, Boeing, Sukhoi Aviation Corporation, Israel Aircraft Industries, RSK MiG, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce plc, Dassault Aviation, Dornier Flugzeugwerke, Aeronautical Development Agency and Indian Space Research Organisation.

DTN News: Aeroflot Postpone Airbus Delivery

DTN News: Aeroflot Postpone Airbus Delivery
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) PARIS, France - July 28, 2009: Airbus has said in a statement that they still plan to achieve its target for aircraft sales despite a decision by Russian carrier, Aeroflot, to delay the delivery of some new aircraft. The Airbus A320 is a short-to-medium range commercial passenger aircraft manufactured by EADS (Airbus S.A.S.). First delivered in 1988, the A320 pioneered the use of digital fly-by-wire flight control systems in a commercial aircraft. When buying Aeroflot tickets be sure to check the Aeroflot - Airbus A320-200 seating chart to identify the best Airbus seat locations for your A320-200 flight tickets on Aeroflot. When buying airline tickets use the Aeroflot - Airbus A320-200 economy class to find your best aircraft seats. Passenger airline economy class help fliers identify the best Aeroflot - Airbus A320-200 seats. Check cabin configurations and seating layouts when booking your next airline tickets. Discount airfares and cheap flights offer the best value if fliers locate the best legroom. Aeroflot claims that they cannot take the delivery of five new Airbus jets because it cannot make up the passenger numbers due to the global economic downturn. Airbus Spokeswoman Stephanie Henrion said “We maintain our delivery forecast of 483 aircraft, matching the record set in 2008.” The decision now means that Airbus will have to wait for most of the $450 million that the airline was supposed to pay for the aircraft.Aeroflot have deferred the delivery of the aircraft to over the next 4 years, with two A320-200 jets expected to be delivered one and two years later than planned. The Russian flagship carrier reported last week of a 12 percent drop in passenger numbers for the first quarter of this year as Russia struggles with its worst economic crisis in over a decade. Airbus still expects to reach their target aircraft sales as aircraft makers generally find another airline that would like to advance its order.

DTN News: Airbus 380 The Worlds Largest Jetliner Will Attend EAA AirVenture In Oshkosh

DTN News: Airbus 380 The Worlds Largest Jetliner Will Attend EAA AirVenture In Oshkosh *Source: DTN News / AvStop.com By Mike Mitchell
(NSI News Source Info) OSHKOSH, Wisconsin - July 28, 2009: Airbus A380 landed yesterday at Mitchell International Airport and will head over to Oshkosh, Wisconsin sometime today for the annual Airshow. The A380 has unmatched fuel efficiency, consuming less than three litres per 100 kilometres per passenger. A380 is the biggest jetliner in the world. The aircraft has three decks including suites onboard, seating of up to 525 seats, sleeping areas and 220 windows. Two full length decks offering 50% more floor surface than any other high capacity aircraft. Broader seats more personal storage, better head room and wider stairs. Exceptional cabin efficient air filtering systems, with four high level air outlets instead of the traditional two, the cabin air gets refreshed every three minutes. Its new-generation engines, Rolls-Royce Trent 900 or Engine Alliance GP7000, and superb aerodynamic performance mean that the A380 not only complies with today’s noise limits, it is also significantly quieter than any other large aircraft either flying today. The A380 generates only half as much noise on take-off and landing as the previous largest passenger aircraft. The A380 starts from a baseline passenger aircraft with a capacity of 525 passengers in three classes, and a range of 8,200 nm. At the end of May 2009, a total firm orders for the A380 stand at 200 aircraft from 16 customers. Singapore Airlines took delivery of the first production A380 on 15th October 2007 and have eight aircraft in operation on routes from Singapore to Sydney, London and Tokyo. To date, 17 A380 have been delivered to its customers at a cost of about $320 million per aircraft. The A380 length 240 feet with a wing span of 262 feet and height 79 ft (equivalent to a six story building). Its cabin width for main deck is 21.6 feet and the upper deck is 19.4 feet. The A380 has a maximum operating speed of 587 mph , service ceiling of 43,030 feet and a range of 6,400 miles. The aircraft requires a runway take of length of 9,500 feet. Its fuel capacity is about 81,890 US gallons. You can check out the A380 yourself through Friday at the Airventure in Oshkosh. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (formerly The EAA Annual Convention and Fly-In) is an annual gathering of aviation enthusiasts held each summer at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, United States. The event is presented by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), a national/international organization based in Oshkosh. The airshow is seven days long and typically begins on the last Monday in July. The airport's control tower is the busiest control tower in the world during the gathering. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration, has kicked its event at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The 57th annual convention of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) begain showcasing the best of aviation innovation and heritage. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration, has kicked its event at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The 57th annual convention of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) begain showcasing the best of aviation innovation and heritage. Each year, EAA AirVenture welcomes more than 10,000 aircraft to the weeklong celebration, along with a total attendance of more than 500,000 visitors from 65 nations. “Simply put, Oshkosh is the place to be for anyone who enjoys flight, innovation and the best aviators’ gathering in the world, and this year it is an unmatched lineup of people, airplanes and programs,” said Tom Poberezny, EAA president and AirVenture chairman. “EAA AirVenture is the international crossroads where people enjoy and celebrate the freedom of flight, and this year numerous improvements have been made throughout the grounds so the experience is even more enjoyable.” EAA AirVenture’s aircraft lineup is filled this year with the latest flight and space innovations along with the legendary aircraft of aviation’s first 100 years. The lineup includes a number of aircraft never before seen at Oshkosh, including Virgin Galactic’s VMS Mothership “Eve” and the massive Airbus A380. In addition, EAA AirVenture 2009 will offer nearly 1,000 forums, workshops and seminars; special activities for young people and families; aviation personalities and notables; and more than 2,500 showplanes of all descriptions. All of these activities are included in AirVenture admission, as are top-flight entertainment options throughout this week.
EAA AirVenture 2009’s features and attractions include: -Virgin Galactic’s VMS Mothership “Eve”, the next generation of space tourism launch vehicle, which will be on the grounds July 27-August 1; -The Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger airliner, making its first North American public air show appearance July 28-31; -Hear from the “Miracle on the Hudson” cockpit crew in command of US Airways flight 1549, as pilots Sully Sullenberger and Jeff Skiles recount their experiences that day last January; -Recognition of aviation’s important humanitarian work around the world in the weeklong Fly4Life activities; -The Erickson S-64F Aircrane helitanker, nicknamed “Elvis”; a heavy-duty, twin-engine firefighting helicopter that will make aerial displays; -More than 400 Warbirds that include aircraft from World War II and classic fighter jets, many flying in spectacular shows throughout the week (expanded programs July 31-Aug. 1); -Modern military aircraft such as the C-5M and C-17 transports, and A-10, F-16 and F/A-18 fighters, including the popular Heritage Flights combining old and new aircraft; -A variety of special anniversaries, from the centennial of flight in Canada, 80th anniversary of the Pietenpol, 60th anniversary of the T-28 warbird, and 50th anniversary of the Cessna 150; -Upgraded areas throughout the grounds, including new pedestrian walkways, flush toilet facilities on the flight line and in the campgrounds, increased wi-fi coverage, and more; -Top-flight entertainment such as the Doobie Brothers on July 27, presented by Ford Motor Company; pilot/comedian Jeff Dunham on August 1, presented by Rotorway International; and nightly aviation movies under the stars July 26-August 1 at the Fly-In Theater. -More than 2,500 showplanes that include homebuilts, vintage models, ultralights, and seaplanes.

DTN News: Bahrain Will Receive From Raytheon ~ 25 AIM-120C-7 AMRAAM Missiles

DTN News: Bahrain Will Receive From Raytheon ~ 25 AIM-120C-7 AMRAAM Missiles
*Source: DTN News / Defense Security Cooperation Agency (NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - July 28, 2009: On July 27, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible foreign military sale to the Government of Bahrain of 25 AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and associated equipment, parts and services at an estimated cost of $74 million. The AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile, or AMRAAM, is a modern Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile (AAM) capable of all weather day and night performance. It is also commonly known as the Slammer in USAF service. When an AMRAAM missile is being launched, NATO pilots use the brevity code Fox Three. The Government of Bahrain has requested a possible sale of 25 AIM-120C-7 AMRAAMs, missile containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated cost is $74 million. This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major non-NATO ally that has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East. The proposed sale will improve Bahrain’s capability to meet current and future threats of enemy air-to-air weapons. Bahrain will use the enhanced capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defense. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The prime contractor will be Raytheon Missile Systems Corporation, Tucson, Arizona. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. Implementation of this proposed sale will require bi-annual trips to Bahrain involving six U.S. Government and four contractor representatives for program management reviews over a period of up to five years. There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by law. It does not mean that the sale has been concluded.

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Wins Support And Maintenance Contract For the U.S. Marine Corps

DTN News: Northrop Grumman Wins Support And Maintenance Contract For the U.S. Marine Corps
*Source: DTN News / Northrop Grumman Corporation
(NSI News Source Info) RESTON, Va., - July 28, 2009: Northrop Grumman Corporation was awarded a follow-on contract to provide support, maintenance, and refresh services to the U.S. Marine Corps Topographic Production Capability (TPC) Family of Systems, providing unit commanders with the information required to support the Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) process. The total potential value of the TPC contract is $43.5 million over a five-year period. "Northrop Grumman's TPC program team is highly regarded by the Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) community and our previous success has encouraged new and exciting opportunities for supporting the warfighter," said John Olesak, vice president of integrated intelligence for Northrop Grumman's Information Systems sector. "This award is a tremendous step for the program and our team looks forward to working with the Marine Corps." Under the terms of the contract, Northrop Grumman will provide support, maintenance, sustainment, and technology refresh services to the Marine Corps. "This win builds on a decade of experience providing services to the Marine Corps topographic community," said Jim Hyland, TPC program manager for Northrop Grumman Information Systems. "Our legacy continues to lead to new opportunities to support the Marine Corps warfighter and we continue to be proud of the team's accomplishments." Work on the contract will take place primarily at Northrop Grumman's integration facilities in Stafford, Va. Northrop Grumman's teammates include Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI), Redlands, Calif. and Avineon, Alexandria, Va. Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide.

DTN News: View Of ~ Indian Air Force's AWACS Touching Down In India On May 25, 2009

DTN News: View Of ~ Indian Air Force's AWACS Touching Down In India On May 25, 2009
*Source: DTN News
(NSI News Source Info) MUMBAI, India - July 28, 2009: Indian Air Force's AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) platform touches down at the Jamnagar air base in India, May 25, 2009. The first of the three Indian Air Force AWACS platforms arrived in India from Israel. India has officially taken delivery of an Awacs early-warning surveillance aircraft, part of a $1bn (£600m) defence deal with Israel.
Indian Air Force's MiG-29, left, lands after escorting an AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) platform, at the Jamnagar air base in India, May 25, 2009. The first of the three Indian Air Force AWACS platforms arrived in India from Israel.
The plane, Russian-made but packed with Israeli radar, is expected to reinforce India's maritime security following the attacks on Mumbai last year. Only a few non-Nato countries have Awacs and critics say it is a bad omen for the arms race in South Asia. India has ordered another two AWACS as it upgrades its military capabilities.
The Ilyushin-76 - which arrived in India on Monday - gives India the capability to track hundreds of aircraft and potential threats at sea and on the ground, at considerable distances. Air dominanceIndia is the first country in South Asia to own an Awacs (Airborne Warning and Control System) plane, popularly nicknamed the "eye in the sky".
The second and third aircraft are expected to be handed over next year. Analysts say the purchase, part of a 2004 deal involving India, Israel and Russia, is part of India's efforts to achieve air dominance over its rival, Pakistan.
Russia and Israel are India's two largest military suppliers. India's defence procurement is expected to rise to about $100bn over the next ten years. Delhi recently signed contracts with Israel for medium range surface-to-air missiles, and with Russia for the design and development of fighter aircraft.
Other foreign defence companies, including those from the Americas, Europe and Asia, are also lining up to do business with India. Indian Defence Minister AK Antony, who attended the Awacs handing-over ceremony at Jamnagar air base, complained about the late delivery of defence equipment ordered by India from a number of countries. He pointed out that the Awacs should have been delivered 18 months ago.

DTN News: Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates In India

DTN News: Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates In India
*Source: DTN News
(NSI News Source Info) NEW DELHI, India - July 28, 2009: Microsoft Corp co-founder Bill Gates receives the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize from India's President Pratibha Patil as Prime Minister Manmohan Singh looks on during the conferment ceremony at the presidential palace in New Delhi July 25, 2009.
Bill Gates received the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development on behalf of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, at the Presidential Palace, in New Delhi, India, Saturday, July 25, 2009.
Gates on Friday urged India to move away from low-cost labour toward high-end research and development to keep its giant IT sector competitive.

DTN News: China Shows Military Might In Early July, During Ethnic Violence In Xinjiang Autonomous Region

DTN News: China Shows Military Might In Early July, During Ethnic Violence In Xinjiang Autonomous Region *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) TAIPEI, Taiwan - July 28, 2009: Chinese soldiers in riot gear stand and sit at the main city square in the centre of Urumqi in China's Xinjiang Autonomous Region July 9, 2009. Chinese President Hu Jintao, forced to abandon a G8 summit in Italy by ethnic violence in restive Xinjiang, said that maintaining social stability in the energy-rich region was the "most urgent task", state television reported on Thursday July 9. Armed Chinese paramilitary police in riot gear march along the main near Dong Kuruk Bridge mosque in the city of Urumqi in China's Xinjiang Autonomous Region July 15, 2009. Security remains heavy in ethnic Uighur neighbourhoods of Xinjiang regional capital Urumqi after riots between the Muslim Uighur minority and majority Han Chinese wounded more than 1,600. About 1,000 people have been detained. The official Xinhua news agency said on Wednesday 192 people were killed in the riots in Urumqui. The earlier figure was 184. Hu described Sunday's riots in the regional capital Urumqi, where 156 people were killed and 1,080 wounded when minority Muslim Uighurs attacked majority Han Chinese, as a "serious violent crime elaborately planned and organised by 'three forces' at home and abroad", an apparent reference to religious extremists, separatists and terrorists.

DTN News: Raytheon Technology To Help Pave Way For Man's Next Journey To Moon

DTN News: Raytheon Technology To Help Pave Way For Man's Next Journey To Moon *Source: DTN News / Raytheon (NSI News Source Info) EL SEGUNDO, Calif., - July 28, 2009: Sensing technology developed by Raytheon Company for the U.S. Navy's miniaturized radio frequency system has begun its one-year mission to determine whether the polar regions of the moon contain ice. Soon we will be able to see all the secret places on the Moon. NASA's Mini-SAR radar on the Indian orbiter Chandrayaan-1 is systematically imaging both poles, peering into craters whose floors have been shrouded in shadows for a billion years or more. This early mosaic assembled from strips of data collected through March 2009 will ultimately be filled in and seamlessly mosaicked, shining lights (actually radio frequency energy) into all the Moon's dark polar holes. As well as illuminating the floors the bounced back radar beams can be processed to detect water ice if it occurs in the upper meters of the floors of the permanently shadowed craters, revealing if they will be oases in the hyper-desert of the Moon. The area shown is largely within the 80°N cap of the Moon; I have added names for orientation. Because the Moon is imaged by detecting radar energy bounced off the surface, the Mini-RF team selected a high illumination angle to minimize shadowing, yielding a Full Moon appearance. Launched aboard NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter June 18 and activated July 8, the system, known as Mini-RF, will take high-resolution radar imagery of permanently shaded regions of the moon to attempt to detect ice in areas hidden from other instruments. Under contract to the U.S. Navy, Raytheon provided the antenna, transmitter, analog receiver and software for the system. "This is an important mission for our nation because it represents the first step in the next era of lunar exploration," said Bill Hart, vice president for Raytheon's Space Systems business. "The Mini-RF system will play a key role in determining how we will approach this next phase of the space age." Water ice, deposited as a result of asteroid collisions, is hypothesized to exist in permanently shaded regions of impact craters at the lunar poles, protected from dissipation by the sun. However, that theory lacks proof. NASA is interested in determining the extent to which lunar ice exists, if at all, as the agency prepares for future manned exploration and possible habitation on the moon. Raytheon provided similar support under the same contract for the Indian Space Research Organization's Chandrayaan-1 lunar orbiting mission. That spacecraft's miniaturized synthetic aperture radar (known as Mini-SAR) provided images between mid-February and mid-April. Data obtained during that period are being analyzed for evidence of ice on the lunar surface. The Mini-RF technology of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter differs slightly from what is flying aboard Chandrayaan-1. The LRO version features slightly higher resolution capabilities and will operate in dual S- and X-band modes. It also will fly at a lower orbit than Chandrayaan-1. Raytheon's work on the Mini-RF and Mini-SAR programs illustrates the type of design and manufacturing innovations the Department of Defense advocates as part of its operationally responsive space initiative. That initiative calls for the development of smaller, less-expensive satellites that can be deployed in tactically relevant time frames. Manufactured and delivered within 15 months of design approval, the Mini-RF system provides a wealth of sensing capabilities in a relatively inexpensive and easily adapted platform. "There is a great need within the military and civil space communities to be able to effectively augment or reconstitute critical space capabilities and infuse them with new technologies and operational innovations," Hart said. "Our experience on this and other similar short time-frame programs has taught us a lot about what is required, not only on the manufacturing floor, but throughout a program's life cycle to make that possible." Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

DTN News: Raytheon Ground Soldier Ensemble Achieves Initial Program Milestones

DTN News: Raytheon Ground Soldier Ensemble Achieves Initial Program Milestones *Source: DTN News / Raytheon (NSI News Source Info) MCKINNEY, Texas, - July 28, 2009: Raytheon Company's Ground Soldier Ensemble team completed two major program milestones and is moving to demonstrate networked tactical situational awareness and digital communications capabilities for the dismounted warfighter. Raytheon's GSE team delivered to the U.S. Army the first open frame hardware on schedule in June, and earlier that month, held its first preliminary design review. "By all accounts, Raytheon GSE is progressing rapidly to meet the Army's aggressive prototype and testing schedule aimed at achieving 'Milestone C' production readiness," said Glynn Raymer, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric System Combat Systems. "Our team is working diligently to support the customer's innovative alternative to traditional system design and development. "When you look at Raytheon GSE in the context of Army modernization, our program focus is not unlike our underlying approach to meeting the essential needs of the modern warfighter. We begin with and remain fixated on the soldier who operates at the tactical edge," added Raymer. "In GSE, we are applying low-risk, proven technologies that yield reliable performance without compromising size, weight or power." Raytheon GSE links the dismounted soldier to the battlefield network for real-time tactical situational awareness. The soldier system incorporates human factors engineering and analysis for a comfortable fit made to endure harsh environments and long warfighter missions. Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

DTN News: Boeing Observes 45th Anniversary Of Sea Knight Helicopter 1st Flight

DTN News: Boeing Observes 45th Anniversary Of Sea Knight Helicopter 1st Flight *Source: DTN News / Boeing Company (NSI News Source Info) RIDLEY TOWNSHIP, Pa., - July 28, 2009: The Boeing Company yesterday July 27, recognized the service of the CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter, which completed its first flight 45 years ago this month. One hundred sixty-eight of the 624 aircraft originally produced remain in operation with the U.S. Marine Corps and are still maintained by Boeing. The Boeing CH-46 Sea Knight is a medium-lift tandem rotor transport helicopter, used by the United States Marine Corps (USMC) to provide all-weather, day-or-night assault transport of combat troops, supplies and equipment. Assault Support is its primary function, and the movement of supplies and equipment is secondary. Additional tasks include combat support, search and rescue, support for forward refueling and rearming points, CASEVAC and Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP). The commercial version is the BV 107-II, commonly referred to as simply the "Vertol". The Sea Knight, also affectionately known as the “Phrog,” has served as the Marines' medium-lift assault helicopter since 1964, logging more than three million flight hours. Although it is no longer in production, it remains in combat service wherever and whenever the Marines are called into action. The remaining active aircraft are, on average, 35 years old. “The Sea Knight has earned respect and admiration around the world and certainly a special place in history,” said Phil Dunford, vice president and general manager, Boeing Rotorcraft Systems. “While the CH-46 fleet remains in service, it is gradually being replaced by the advanced and highly capable MV-22 Osprey aircraft, which meets the specialized needs of our warfighters in the 21st century.”

DTN News: US President Barack Obama Calls For US, China To Shape Future

DTN News: US President Barack Obama Calls For US, China To Shape Future *Source: DTN News / AFP (NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON, USA - July 28, 2009: US President Barack Obama on Monday called for broad cooperation with China to set the course of the 21st century, saying the relationship between the Pacific powers was "as important as any" in the world. U.S. President Barack Obama shakes hands with Chinese State Councillor Dai Bingguo (C) and Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan after speaking at the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue in Washington July 27, 2009. Kicking off two days of in-depth talks in Washington, Obama appealed for cooperation on a broad range of issues from reviving the global economy to fighting climate change, while also nudging Beijing on human rights. "The relationship between the United States and China will shape the 21st century, which makes it as important as any bilateral relationship in the world," Obama said. "That reality must underpin our partnership. That is the responsibility we bear," he said. In what appeared to be a coordinated new slogan, both Obama and Chinese President Hu Jintao, who sent a message to the meeting, said they sought a "positive, constructive, and comprehensive relationship." "Our two countries should endeavor to expand common ground, reduce differences, enhance mutual trust and strengthen cooperation," Hu said. Obama, who is expected to travel to China later this year, has sought to broaden the relationship with Beijing which is now the largest creditor to the heavily indebted United States. The dialogue revamps an earlier set of talks launched under former US president George W. Bush in 2006 that focused solely on economic issues. But China, whose delegation here is led by State Councilor Dai Bingguo and Vice Premier Wang Qishan, said it would press the United States on concerns including over the safety of its more than 750 billion dollars invested in US Treasury bonds. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, who is leading the US side along with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, said that the world's largest developed and developing economies should coordinate their response to the economic crisis. "China and the United States as leading nations have the opportunity to act not just for the benefit of our own citizens but also for the global economy," Geithner said. US leaders have generally refrained from describing the China relationship as the "most important" in the world. Clinton used the language during her failed presidential bid, raising concerns among some US allies, particularly Japan. Clinton on Monday rejected predictions of a "multi-polar world," often used as codeword by Chinese, Russian and other policymakers to signal the end of a US-dominated era. "Although past relations between the United States and China have been influenced by the idea of a balance of power among great nations, the fresh thinking of the 21st century moves us from a multi-polar world to a multi-partner world," Clinton said. Both Clinton and Obama, while pledging not to see China as a rival, also acknowledged differences with the rising Asian power -- particularly on human rights. Obama said that the United States respected China's "ancient culture" but added: "We also strongly believe that the religion and culture of all peoples must be respected and protected, and that all people should be free to speak their minds." "That includes ethnic and religious minorities in China, as surely as it includes minorities within the United States," said Obama, the first president from the historically oppressed African-American community. The US-China dialogue comes shortly after the eruption of ethnic violence in China's Muslim-majority Xinjiang province, which left at least 192 people dead and raised calls by some US lawmakers to get tougher on Washington. The US leader asked for China's cooperation on a "low-carbon" recovery to the world economy, saying that the two largest carbon-emitting nations had a responsibility to work for a new global climate treaty by December's deadline. Obama sought China's assistance on ending North Korea and Iran's nuclear drives. He raised the specter of a nuclear arms race in East Asia. Pyongyang, which counts Beijing as its main ally, has tested a nuclear bomb, test-fired missiles and stormed out of a six-nation disarmament deal in recent months.

DTN News: China and Taiwan Leaders Exchange Letters For First Time

DTN News: China and Taiwan Leaders Exchange Letters For First Time
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - July 28, 2009: China's President Hu Jintao has sent his Taiwan counterpart Ma Ying-jeou a telegram, applauding his election as ruling party chief. Taiwan's leader Ma Ying-jeou (left) and Chinese President Hu Jintao
The letter was the first direct communication between the leaders of the two governments in 60 years. Ma Ying-jeou's Nationalist Party says that in addition to congratulating Mr. Ma on his election as party chairman, Mr. Hu on Monday expressed hope the Communist Party can work with the Nationalists and promote peaceful relations between the two sides.
In his 73-word telegram, Mr. Hu also said he hoped the two parties could build more trust in political affairs. Mr. Ma responded by sending his own letter, urging Beijing and Taipei to continue efforts to build peace across the Taiwan Strait and rebuild regional stability.
Ties between Taiwan and China have long been difficult. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan, which has been separately governed since the Communists won the Chinese civil war in 1949 and the Nationalists fled to the island.
Usually the two sides communicate through semiofficial channels. This is the first direct, publicly released communication between leaders in Beijing and Taipei in six decades.
In his telegram, China's president simply called the Taiwanese leader Mr. Ma, an apparent attempt to avoid touching on the sensitive issue of sovereignty.
Lin Chong-pin is a former vice-chairman of Taiwan's top policy-making body for relations with China. He says the exchange of letters is an extension of the goodwill that has been building since Mr. Ma was elected last year.
"It's a continuation of the trend which began last year" Lin said. Of course, for Ma Ying-jeou it was the first time. Nothing surprising, however, like everybody has conjectured it has increased the probability of the two meeting face to face as heads of the two parties in 2012 before Hu Jintao leaves his position."
Lin says he thinks the two want to meet so that they can both receive a Nobel Peace Prize for their effort. He adds, however, that 2012 is a long way off and much could happen between now and then, on either side of Taiwan Strait, to disrupt such an effort.
Since Mr. Ma was elected president in May 2008, on pledges to open more trade with China and put aside politics, the two sides have signed landmark trade and transit deals.
Mr. Ma's election as the head of the Nationalists and Mr. Hu's telegram appeared to help boost Taiwan's stocks on Monday. The main index ended above 7,000 points for the first time in 11 months.

DTN News: Iran ~ For Revolution, Mir-Hossein Mousavi Wants 'Will Of People' As Basis

DTN News: Iran ~ For Revolution, Mir-Hossein Mousavi Wants 'Will Of People' As Basis
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) TEHRAN, Iran - July 28, 2009: Amid growing dissension among Iran's ruling elite over the president's conduct, former presidential candidate Mir-Hossein Mousavi says the post-vote crisis is the product of undervaluing the will of the people.
Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) Iranian opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi, seated at center with blue shirt, attends the Friday prayers at the Tehran University campus in Tehran, Iran, Friday, July 17, 2009.
Mousavi, who is described by some as a symbol of opposition, said Monday that the only way to end the disquiet in Iran is to return to the values that the Islamic Republic was based upon some 30 years ago.
The crisis that Mousavi spoke of in a meeting with a group of intellectuals and activists was sparked after the presidential election in June in which the incumbent, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, was re-elected with almost two-thirds of the votes. Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi, another defeated candidate, claim that widespread ballot fraud in favor of Ahmadinejad had led to his victory.
Their supporters, consequently, took to the streets, demanding the annulment of the election in support of reform within the establishment. Mousavi on Monday said the continuation of the current crisis would damage the political establishment as well as the revolution, the Iranian Labor News Agency (ILNA) reported.
"People made the (1979 Islamic) Revolution for freedom. Where is that freedom now?
This situation will destroy everyone and will harm the system," he said. During the meeting, he also urged authorities to give the nod to his request to hold a mourning ceremony for those killed in the post-election protests.
"The pro-reform path will continue," said Iran's last prime minister. "The establishment should respect the Constitution and let us gather to commemorate our killed loved ones on Thursday." Mousavi and Karroubi, in a letter to the Interior Ministry, assured that the ceremony, planned to be held on Thursday at central Tehran's Grand Mosalla -- a prayer location where tens of thousands can gather -- would be a silent one. His remarks come as Iran's president has come under fire over his recent decisions in the appointment and dismissal of a high-ranking official. Ahmadinejad's choice for first vice president, Esfandiar Rahim-Mashaei, unleashed a torrent of criticism from his allies and critics.
The weeklong dispute was tamed only after the intervention of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in the issue, which led to the reversal of president's appointment.
On Sunday, the president, who secured some 24 million votes according to official figures, dismissed Intelligence Minister Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei who had opposed the appointment of Rahim-Mashaei.
The resignation of his Culture Minister Mohammad-Hassan Saffar-Harandi on Monday, even though has not yet been accepted, raised fears that the Ahmadinejad administration, in its last 7 days in office, would need a fresh vote of confidence from the parliament.
The government has also come under fire over its detention of those who protested against the election results and over the death of two protesters while in custody.
Judiciary Chief Ayatollah Mahmoud Hashemi Shahroudi on Monday called on pertinent officials to decide within a week the fate of those protesters who remain imprisoned. On the issue, Mousavi said detentions would not be able to sap the people's will for freedom.
"The killings and arrests are a catastrophe. The people will not forgive those behind such crimes," he said.
"The more they arrest people, the bigger this movement becomes."
"The country of 70 million cannot become a prison for all of them," he concluded.

DTN News: Nigerian Islamist Attacks Spread

DTN News: Nigerian Islamist Attacks Spread
*Analysis: Tensions are never far from the surface in northern Nigeria. Poverty and competition for scarce resources, along with ethnic, cultural and religious differences have all fuelled sudden violence. But the latest violence is not between communities, it involves young men from religious groups, arming themselves and attacking local police. Fringe religious groups in Nigeria have claimed links to the Taliban before - individuals have also been accused of links to al-Qaeda. But Nigeria is very different to countries like Mali or Algeria, where groups such as al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb operate. The idea of radical Islamist militants gaining a serious foothold in Nigeria is usually dismissed, because of the strength of local identities and traditions. By Caroline Duffield, BBC News, Nigeria
*Source: DTN News / BBC (NSI News Source Info) LAGOS, Nigeria - July 28, 2009: Dozens of people have been killed after Islamist militants staged three attacks in northern Nigeria, taking the total killed in two days of violence to 150. A BBC reporter has counted 100 bodies, mostly of militants, near the police headquarters in Maiduguri, Borno State, where hundreds are fleeing their homes. Witnesses told the BBC a gun battle raged for hours in Potiskum, Yobe State and a police station was set on fire. Some of the militants follow a preacher who campaigns against Western schools. The preacher, Mohammed Yusuf, says Western education is against Islamic teaching. There has also been an attack in Wudil, some 20km (12 miles) from Kano, the largest city in northern Nigeria. A curfew is in force in Bauchi, the scene of Sunday's violence. Sharia law is in place across northern Nigeria, but there is no history of al-Qaeda-linked violence in the country. Nigeria's 150 million people are split almost equally between Muslims and Christians and the two groups generally live peacefully side by side, despite occasional outbreaks of communal violence. Militants chanting "God is great" attacked the Potiskum police station at about 0215 local time (0115 GMT) - the same time as the raid was launched in Maiduguri. The police station and neighbouring buildings in Potiskum have been razed to the ground, eyewitnesses say. Two people have been confirmed dead and the police have made 23 arrests. Fringe group The corpses of civilians are scattered around the streets of Maiduguri, after being pulled from their cars and shot, eyewitnesses say. The police and army are patrolling, firing into the air, apparently trying to clear civilians from the area. There are unconfirmed reports of a jailbreak in the town. In Wudil, three people have been killed and more than 33 arrested. The senior police officer in Wudil has been wounded. Security is said to have been beefed up in Plateau State, to the south of Bauchi, where hundreds were killed in clashes between Muslims and Christians last year. Mr Yusuf's followers in Bauchi are known as Boko Haram, which means "Education is prohibited". They attacked a police station on Sunday after some of their leaders were arrested. Correspondents say the group is seen locally as a fringe group and has aroused suspicion for its recruitment of young men, and its belief that Western education, Western culture and science are sinful.

DTN News: North Korea Says It Won't Return To Six-Nation Nuclear Talks

DTN News: North Korea Says It Won't Return To Six-Nation Nuclear Talks
*Source: DTN News / Int'l Media
(NSI News Source Info) SEOUL, South Korea - July 28, 2009: North Korea has reiterated that it would not return to the six-party talks, aimed at disabling Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program.
North Korean soldiers look towards the south as the U.S. soldiers stand guard at the truce village of Panmunjom in the demilitarised zone separating the two Koreas, in Paju, about 55 km (34 miles) north of Seoul, July 27, 2009, while Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission holds the 56th anniversary of armistice between the two Koreas after the 1950-53 Korean War. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said on Sunday that major powers wanted North Korea to return to negotiations over its nuclear program but would not reward any provocative actions.
However a Foreign Ministry statement suggested on Monday that the North was not shutting the door completely on some form of dialogue.
"There is a specific and reserved form of dialogue that can address the current situation," state media quoted a foreign ministry spokesman as saying, without further elaboration.
Earlier on Friday North Korea's UN envoy, Sin Son-Ho, had also hinted on the issue, saying that Pyongyang was not opposed to negotiations with the US, but that it would not return to the six-party format.
North Korea abandoned the Six-party talks -- involving the two Koreas, the United States, China, Russia and Japan -- in April, after the UN condemned its long-range rocket launch.
Since then Pyongyang has conducted several nuclear and missile tests, which have also been met with tougher UN sanctions.
The sanctions include an expanded arms embargo and strict inspections of all shipments going to and from North Korea.
A travel ban has also been imposed on Pyongyang officials suspected of being involved in the country's nuclear and missile programs.
The United States has meanwhile urged the international community to continue to pressure North Korea to return to the six-party talks.

DTN News: NASA Extends Bioastronautics Contract With Wyle For Total Value Of $976 Million

DTN News: NASA Extends Bioastronautics Contract With Wyle For Total Value Of $976 Million *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) EL SEGUNDO, Calif., - July 28, 2009: NASA has exercised a $201 million second option on a contract with Wyle to provide continuing support to the Space Life Sciences Directorate at NASA's Johnson Space Center. The option extends the contract to April 30, 2013. The work will be done by Wyle's Integrated Science and Engineering Group, headquartered in Houston. Under the bioastronautics contract, Wyle's work supports the International Space Station, space shuttle, Constellation and Human Research Programs. Wyle maintains readiness of Space Life Sciences facilities and laboratories. Wyle provides services for program integration; habitability and environmental factors; human adaptation and countermeasures; space medicine; flight hardware development and human research activities. Option 2 is a continuation of previous work with the exception that the space shuttle will be retired and no longer supported. The majority of the work is performed at Johnson Space Center. Work also is performed at launch and landing sites in the United States and Russia, as well as at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Moscow. The contract's base period was from May 1, 2003 to April 30, 2008. Exercising Option 1 in July 2007 extended the contract to April 30, 2011. The base period and Option 1 have a combined value of $775 million. Exercising Option 2 brings the total potential value of the contract to $976 million. Wyle, a privately held company, is a leading provider of high tech aerospace engineering and information technology services to the federal government on long-term outsourcing contracts. The company also provides life sciences services for NASA's astronaut corps as well as mission critical support services and space simulation; test and evaluation of aircraft, weapon systems, networks, and other government assets; and other engineering services to the aerospace, defense, nuclear power, communications and transportation industries.

DTN News: Research and Markets: Combat Aircraft Market ~ Global Market Outlook Report 2009-2019

DTN News: Research and Markets: Combat Aircraft Market ~ Global Market Outlook Report 2009-2019 *Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Combat Aircraft Market Global Market Outlook 2009-2019" report to their offering.
*Source: DTN News / Research and Markets (NSI News Source Info) DUBLIN, Ireland - July 28, 2009: World Air Forces are at various combat aircraft replacement and upgrade cycles. Most NATO countries are in an active replacement phase for their 1970s designed aircraft while emerging nations such as India will evaluate entirely new aircraft sources in the near future.
More than 5,000 combat aircraft will be entering service globally over the next decade, with a peak of 524 deliveries in 2014. Programs such the Lockheed Martin F-35 are set to dominate the marketplace through 2029 while G2 Solutions expects aircraft such as the Dassault Rafale to gain more traction on the export market through 2014.
"Rafale has had issues with some export tenders this decade, due to a mix of unfavorable political considerations and system overall technical maturity," said Michel Merluzeau, G2 Solutions' Managing Partner.
"However, the outlook has improved, with market potential for Rafale around 300 aircraft to 2019, more if it wins the Indian MMRCA competition." Airframes of concern this decade include the Saab Gripen and Boeing F-15 Silent Eagle (SE). Gripen has been relatively successful, but now competes for tenders in Brazil and India where the aircraft is clearly at a disadvantage against the Boeing F-18E or Dassault Rafale.
Failure to gain additional orders might see the program come to a standstill by 2015, however there are smaller opportunities such as Argentina that are possibly ideally suited for Gripen. "The upgraded F-15SE is an interesting niche option for existing F-15 operators, but the market opportunity window is tight and the addressable market is probably fewer than 100 aircraft," stated Merluzeau. The study also highlights the remarkable longevity of the Lockheed Martin F-16 series, soon to be supplanted by the F-35.
Thirty years since its entry in service, G2 Solutions analysis predicts that more than 200 F-16s have/will be delivered between 2008 and 2019. Lockheed Martin will maintain a commanding lead with a market share greater than 43%, ahead of Boeing, AVIC1, Eurofighter-EADS and Dassault Aviation. Key Topics Covered: *Executive Briefing *Combat Aircraft Deliveries 2008-2019 *Combat Aircraft Deliveries Market Shares (Aircraft) 2008-2019 *Combat Aircraft Deliveries Market Shares (Manufacturers) 2008-2019 *Combat Aircraft Deliveries (Selected Aircraft) 2008-2019 *Combat Aircraft Market Revenues 2008-2019 *Combat Aircraft Market Revenues (Shares/Models) 2008-2019 *Combat Aircraft Market Revenues 2008-2019 NATO/ALLIES 4/5th generation *Combat Aircraft Market Revenues 2008-2019 Manufacturers Market Shares *Combat Aircraft Market 2008-2019 Regional Manufacturers Market Shares *Combat Aircraft Market 2008-2019 Regional Customer Market Shares *Combat Aircraft Market Revenues 2008-2019 Avionics Revenues *Combat Aircraft Avionics Market Trends *Lockheed Martin F-35 *Boeing F/A-18E/F *Lockheed Martin F-16 *Dassault Rafale *Saab Gripen *AVIC1 J-10 *AVIC1 JF-17 *Eurofighter Typhoon *Competitive Outlook *Strategic Issues *UCAV Outlook

DTN News: Indonesia Now Using MegaMatcher Biometric Technology In Integrated Passport Issuance System

DTN News: Indonesia Now Using MegaMatcher Biometric Technology In Integrated Passport Issuance System *Neurotechnology's Multi-biometric Face and Fingerprint Identification Engine Helps Enable Fast, Accurate Passport Processing
*Source: DTN News / Neurotechnology
(NSI News Source Info) VILNIUS, Lithuania - July 28, 2009: Neurotechnology, a biometric identification technologies provider, announced today their inclusion as the core enrollment and identification engine for the Indonesian Integrated Biometric Passport Issuance System. MegaMatcher SDK multi-biometric technology was used by X/LINK Software, working with ICT Solution Provider PT. Berca Hardayaperkasa, to develop a distributed passport issuance system that enables the Republic of Indonesia's 100+ Immigration Offices to quickly enroll and process local passport applications.
MegaMatcher technology is intended for large-scale AFIS and multi-biometric systems developers. The technology ensures high reliability and speed of biometric identification even when using large databases. MegaMatcher is available as a software development kit that allows development of large-scale fingerprint, face or multi-biometric face-fingerprint and optionally iris identification products for Microsoft Windows and Linux platforms. Iris template extraction and matching engine is available as an add-on for the SDK.
Data from the local offices is automatically forwarded to a centralized biometric matching system that delivers fast and accurate processing of passport information. Neurotechnology's MegaMatcher provided the best combination of high degree of accuracy, identification of duplicate registrations, exemplary technical support and a low total cost of ownership. "Neurotechnology's MegaMatcher has provided Immigration an affordably priced, integrated solution for our unique Passport Issuance System," said Mr. Erwin Azis, SH, MH, Director of System Information of the Directorate General of Immigration of the Department of Law and Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia. "Indonesia's passport system was a large and important project and we are pleased that MegaMatcher was selected for its implementation," said Dr. Algimantas Malickas, CEO of Neurotechnology. "X/LINK is a very experienced integrator, and using MegaMatcher technology they were able to implement a reliable, fast and fault tolerant system." The Indonesia passport issuance system uses MegaMatcher Client to generate templates from face and fingerprint images collected at local Indonesian Immigration Offices. These templates, along with scans of other required documents, are stored on a local server and forwarded automatically by X/LINK SAF (Store and Forward) to the Biometric Matching System at Immigration Headquarters. The Biometric Matching System, built upon the MegaMatcher Server solution, provides the identification and duplicate searching in the national passport database. Results are returned to the local office via SAF where, if appropriate, the passport is issued. The system at each Immigration Office utilizes a Linux Server with browser Clients running Windows XP and the web-based application developed using MegaMatcher Client. The Biometric Matching System at immigration headquarters in Jakarta runs on a scalable Linux server farm. The high speed and reliability of MegaMatcher facilitates the development of national-scale multi-biometric face/fingerprint identification systems and automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS) for both civil and forensic applications. MegaMatcher includes both fingerprint and face identification engines with a fusion algorithm that allows the two technologies to work together to provide very fast 1:N (1 to many) matching with higher reliability than AFIS or facial recognition alone. The MegaMatcher fingerprint recognition algorithm has received full NIST MINEX certification for use in the US Government Personal Identity Verification program fingerprint recognition applications. MegaMatcher supports BioAPI 2.0 and most other biometric industry standards and can be used in conjunction with other Neurotechnology products, including VeriFinger, VeriLook and the FaceCell and FingerCell embedded development kits. All components of MegaMatcher can be used on both Microsoft Windows and Linux operating systems. MegaMatcher 3.0 SDK is available with highly competitive licensing options through Neurotechnology or from distributors worldwide. A 30-day trial version with full functionality is also available for download.
About Neurotechnology Neurotechnology is a provider of high-precision biometric fingerprint, face and iris identification algorithms, object recognition technology and software development products. More than 1900 system integrators, security companies and hardware providers integrate Neurotechnology's algorithms and software development technologies into their own products, with millions of customer installations worldwide. Neurotechnology's identification algorithms have consistently earned the highest honors in some of the industry's most rigorous competitions, including the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST)'s Fingerprint Vendor Technology Evaluation (FpVTE) and the Fingerprint Verification Competitions (FVC). Drawing from years of academic research in the fields of neuroinformatics, image processing and pattern recognition, Neurotechnology was founded in 1990 in Vilnius, Lithuania under the name Neurotechnologija and released its first fingerprint identification system in 1991. Since that time the company has released more than 40 products and version upgrades for identification and verification of objects and personal identity. On April 14, 2008 the company announced an official name change to Neurotechnology.