Turkish Defence News

Turkey to select foreign engine for local fighter

2014-06-24T18:27:00.000+03:00

Turkey has requested bids from global motor companies GE, Rolls-Royce and Pratt & Whitney to present bids to power Turkey’s future fighter jet. The defense authorities, who mull to complete the program by 2023, see the engines as the first step for the ambitious program
Turkey’s aerospace industry and procurement authorities have decided to first choose a foreign-made engine for the indigenous fighter jet that the country’s local industry will develop, and then finalize its design.

A senior aide of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Turkish scientists had decided that choosing the engine and then proceeding with the program would be the best way.

“So we’ll first choose the engine that will power the TF-X [the proposed Turkish fighter] and develop the aircraft based on that engine,” the official said.

Earlier this year, Turkey’s defense procurement agency, the Undersecretary for Defense Industry (SSM) wrote to three engine makers — GE, Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce — asking them to propose a suitable engine for the TF-X.

An SSM official said Ankara would most likely select an engine before the end of the year. “That decision will be followed by the launch of the first phase of the development stage,” he said.

Earlier in June, Pratt & Whitney, at a high profile ceremony, inaugurated its Turkish partnership with local aviation company Kale to produce critical engine parts for the F-35.

Kale Pratt & Whitney, the joint venture, will manufacture the parts of the F-135 and the engine for the F-35, at the plant in İzmir on Turkey’s Aegean coast.

Pratt & Whitney has a 51 percent share in the joint venture while the Turkish company holds the remaining 49 percent, company officials said. The $75 million investment will employ an initial 700 workers.

Turkey hopes to build the TF-X by 2023, the Republic’s centennial.

Turkish jets ‘to cover weaknesses of F-35’

Defense officials say the Turkish fighter fleet by then will comprise of the TF-X and the new generation F-35. They say a combination of the Turkish fighter and the multinational F-35 will ensure sufficient firepower and deterrence.

Experts often say the F-35 has some weaknesses in air-to-air combat, but the TF-X would compensate.

Turkey in May officially decided to order the country’s first two F-35s. The order is for the first F-35A aircraft with Block-3F configuration under Low Rate Initial Production-10.

Turkey joined the multinational F-35 program as a consortium partner during the concept demonstration phase in 1999.

In January 2013, Turkey had indefinitely put off a decision to order the first two F-35s, citing unpredictable costs and technical snags.

But procurement officials say the country’s commitment to eventually acquire 100 F-35s remains.

Meanwhile, Tusas Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) already has finished the pre-conceptual design work and produced three draft models, one of which would become the first

Turkish indigenous fighter jet. For the pre-conceptual design work, the TAI extensively cooperated with Sweden’s Saab, maker of the Gripen, a lightweight single-engine multirole fighter. Turkey plans to eventually buy 100 to 150 of the TF-X.

Burak Bekdil, Hurriyet Daily News

Roketsan, Saab Plan Anti-Tank Missile Collaboration

2014-06-24T18:23:00.000+03:00

PARIS — Turkish missile-maker Roketsan could join forces with Saab Dynamics to develop a new anti-tank missile system, the two sides announced on the second day of the Eurosatory equipment show.

The companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the show, but beyond that there were few details available of what the potential partners have in mind for the cooperation pact.

Industry executives said it was likely the development would be around a weapon aimed at the short- to medium-range anti-tank market. The partnership is in its early stages and work has yet to be done to start firming up the arrangement, including what the weapon might look like, they said.

Rokestan already produces medium- and long-range anti-tank weapons while Saab focuses more on smaller anti-tank weapons.

Roketsan Chairman Eyup Kaptan said his company was looking forward to “exploring a new system to lead us to global markets together with Saab. Investigating cooperation opportunities including the marketing of our weapon systems will be our main converging driving force. We hope the result of this initiaive will lead to a broader business cooperation in the future between the two companies.”

It’s the second tie-up for Roketsan with a leading European missile house to be announced in the last few weeks. Last month the Turkish company signed an MoU with MBDA Germany to collaborate on the development of a guided weapon based on a 70mm rocket system.

Source : defensenews.com

First Karayel set for July delivery

2014-06-24T18:20:00.000+03:00

Vestel will shortly deliver the first of its Karayel unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) to the Turkish Land Forces.

Speaking to IHS Jane's , Vestel engineers Emrah iek and Hüseyin Aktan said that one air vehicle and a ground control station (GCS) will be handed over in July. On 30 April Vestel completed the first test flight of a production-standard Karayel.
The Turkish Land Forces tasked Vestel with developing the system to meet their requirements in early 2011. The service sees the platform as filling a tactical role, one tier beneath that of the Anka medium-altitude, long-endurance UAS.

iek said that six air vehicles, three GCSs, and associated communications systems are scheduled to be delivered by the end of the year.

The system currently features a line-of-sight datalink; however, iek said that the next-generation aircraft will likely feature a satellite communications system and he added that in 2015 Vestel may start to examine the potential to arm the aircraft.

The UAS was set to enter service in 2013, but this date was pushed to the right by changes in system requirements by the customer.

The production-standard version of the Karayal features an inverted T-tail, a maximum take-off weight of 550 kg, can carry a 70 kg payload, has an endurance of 20 hours, and an operational ceiling of 22,500 ft. The payload is belly-mounted in a gimbal and currently consists of electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, as well as laser rangefinder and pointer devices.

At Eurosatory 2014, Vestel and France's LH Aviation announced a plan to jointly develop an unmanned version of the latter's LH-10 aircraft. At this stage, the programme envisages the unmanned elements of the Karayel being ported across to the LH-10 platform and the same GCS utilised.

The Karayel's GCS can be configured for a crew of two (pilot and payload operator) or three (plus a mission commander) and is compliant with NATO interoperability standards for unmanned aircraft control and integration; two aircraft can be controlled simultaneously.

Source : IHS Jane's

ANKA fires Cirit Missile !

2014-06-24T18:14:00.000+03:00

ANKA UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) realized test firing of Cirit missile (a Roketsan production 70mm laser guided missile) during test flights in Eskihisar of Eskisehir province .
During the tests, a test missile mounted under the wing was fired with the command from ground station, released and hit the target with success.
ANKA Block-B will have a lighter fuselage comparing to Block-A, 30.000 feet ceiling and 24 hours flight endurance. National SAR/MTI-ISAR radar integration efforts continue on S2 testbed aircraft, ANKA's the test flights with SAR radar scheduled to second half of 2014.

ATAK Team Announce T129 Maiden Flight

2009-09-29T17:25:00.001+03:00

AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce that the ATAK Team, comprising Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc. (TAI), Aselsan and AgustaWestland, has successfully performed the maiden flight of the first T129 prototype. [AgustaWestland designation is AW729—Ed.]

The T129 P1 prototype helicopter’s maiden flight was successfully completed by AgustaWestland and TAI test pilots during an official ceremony held at AgustaWestland facilities in Vergiate, Italy.

The ATAK Programme was initiated with the aim to meet the 50 firm and 41 optional Attack/Tactical Reconnaissance Helicopter requirement of the Turkish Land Forces Command (TLF) by the integration of high-tech avionic equipment, hardware and software which will be developed locally. The programme, in which the Turkish aviation industry is fully involved in the design, development and production phases, is running on time and on budget.

General Manager of TAI, Muharrem Dortkasli said: “It is a great privilege to be here today to witness the first flight of the T129, which will become the most advanced helicopter in its category, so satisfying the requirements of the Land Forces as well as making it very appealing to the international market. An international market in which the Turkish industry will play a primary role.

“It has been a long journey for us to come to this point. We are proud of the success the ATAK Team has generated, a success which I am sure will be followed by many others.”

[AgustaWestland CEO] Giuseppe Orsi commented: “It gives us great pleasure to celebrate today the first flight of the most modern combat helicopter in the world. This event sets a major milestone in our longstanding partnership with Turkish industry and provides clear evidence of how effective this collaboration has been in jointly developing a state-of-the-art all customer-focused solution designed and brought to life in an extraordinary timely manner.

“Today the Turkish aviation industry enters a new era at the forefront of rotorcraft technology. We are committed to further expanding such a successful cooperation in the future.”

(EDITOR’S NOTE: The contracts for the Turkish Attack and Reconnaissance Helicopter (ATAK) Program were signed in April 2007 and became effective in June 2008. At the time, the contract for the first 50 helicopters was valued at about 1.2 billion euros.
The ATAK Program was initiated to meet the Turkish Land Forces Command’s requirement for 50 firm and 41 optional Attack/Tactical Reconnaissance Helicopters, equipped with high-tech avionics hardware and software to be developed by Turkey.
TAI is the Prime Contractor of the ATAK Program, with ASELSAN and AgustaWestland as subcontractors. The helicopters will be manufactured at Turkey’s Center of Aerospace, TAI. The high performance new engine, Automatic Flight Control System and Air Vehicle Monitoring System will be integrated by AgustaWestland, one of the global leaders in rotorcraft industry.
The planned duration of the ATAK Program is 114 months from June 2008, and the first T129 ATAK Helicopter will be delivered in the 60th month.
The Collaboration Agreement also provides TAI with the right to sell and market the T129 ATAK Helicopter worldwide, except in Italy and the UK.)

defense-aerospace.com, LINK

TURKEY - Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Guided Missiles

2009-09-18T16:48:00.002+03:00

WASHINGTON --- Today the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Turkey of 13 Patriot Fire Units, 72 Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC-3) missiles, four PAC-3 Lot Validation Missiles, 197 MIM-104E Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missiles-T (GEM-T), four MIM-104E GEM-T Lot Validation Missiles, five Patriot Digital Missiles, five Anti-Tactical Missiles and other related support and equipment.

The estimated cost is $7.8 billion.

In addition, the potential sale includes eight AN/USQ-140(V)(2)(c) (RT-1785) or AN/USQ-140(V)(11)(c) Multifunctional Information Distribution Systems/Low Volume Terminals (MIDS/LVT-2), 13 AN/MPQ-65 Radar Sets, four Tactical Command Systems, 13 Battery Command Posts, six Communication Relay Groups, 13 Engagement Control Stations, 48 M902 Launching Stations, 52 Antenna Mast Groups, 13 Electronic Power Plant III (EPP), 100 THALES 9310C Very High Frequency (VHF) Voice Radios, 150 THALES 9310C VHF Data Radios, containers, battery and battalion maintenance equipment, prime movers, generators, electrical power units, personnel training and training equipment, trailers, communication equipment, tool and test sets, spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, U.S. Government and contractor technical, engineering, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support.

Turkey is a partner of the United States in ensuring peace and stability in the region. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability that will contribute to an acceptable military balance in the area. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives.

Turkey will use the PAC-3 missiles to improve its missile defense capability, strengthen its homeland defense, and deter regional threats. Turkey has not previously purchased PAC-3 missiles, but will be able to absorb and effectively utilize these missiles.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will be Raytheon Corporation in Andover, Mass., and Lockheed-Martin in Dallas, TX. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 26 contractor representatives in Turkey for training for a period of 24 months and major item repair for approximately 12 months. Several U.S. Government representatives will participate in program management and technical reviews in Turkey for two-week intervals twice annually.

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 and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

defense-aerospace.com, LINK

Astrium Delivers First Set of Satcom Equipments to Aselsan for Turkish Navy's MILGEM Programme

2009-08-04T17:15:00.001+03:00

ANKARA --- Astrium Services’ Secure Satcom Systems division has delivered the first set of satcom equipments to Aselsan for the first of class MILGEM, the prestigious Turkish National corvette programme.

The Astrium delivery comprises a set of equipments based on Astrium’s Mini-SCOT naval terminal. Aselsan, as the prime contractor for the MILGEM satcom suite, are responsible for system design and software development of the terminal and the control station, assembly, integration and test of the terminals as well as the installation, acceptance and test on board and system delivery.

Aselsan and Astrium have previously supplied 16 sets of GEMI shipborne terminals, for the Meko and Perry Class ships, under the Turkish Military Satellite Communications System (TMSCS) project.

MILGEM and TMSCS

TMSCS, in conjunction with the Turkish Armed Forces Integrated Communications System (TAFICS) provides the military satcom ground infrastructure, enabling a fully integrated tri-services communications network. MILGEM will gain access to this infrastructure with the provision of full communication services including voice, data and imagery transmission.

The Turkish Navy currently has the additional benefit, within TMSCS, of a separate three-channel direct satellite communications fixed ground terminal known as SABIT, used for direct communication with ships. Aselsan, as the prime contractor and Astrium, as the sub-contractor were favoured by Savunma Sanayii Müsteşarliği (SSM) with a further order in 2008 to supply a second SABIT terminal, with enhanced features including a 5 channel capability and installation in an EMP protected building. Delivery of the SABIT equipment to Aselsan by Astrium is scheduled for 2009.

Technology transfer

During the implementation phase of the TMSCS system, Astrium provided significant technology transfer to Aselsan covering sub-systems manufacture, system design, integration and operation, and continues to support the long term military and industrial ambitions of Turkey.

Astrium employs Turkish software and support skills

Astrium entered in to a joint venture company in Ankara, Communications Space Technology, which is providing local software and technical support skills for the TMSCS and MILGEM programmes. The JV team has undertaken key software tasks, particularly for network management systems which are utilised in other Astrium programmes in the international arena.

Astrium Services offers a complete range of satellite communications solutions for both government and commercial markets.

Astrium, a wholly owned subsidiary of EADS, is dedicated to providing civil and defence space systems and services. In 2008, Astrium had a turnover of EUR 4.3 billion and more than 15,000 employees in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain and the Netherlands.

EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2008, EADS generated revenues of EUR 43.3 billion and employed a workforce of more than 118, 000.

defense-aerospace.com, LINK

Indonesia and Turkey to work together on anti-submarine warfare aircraft

2009-07-28T18:08:00.001+03:00

Indonesian aviation specialist PT Dirgantara has formed a partnership with Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) to develop a prototype of an anti-submarine warfare version of the CN-235 maritime patrol aircraft, a Dirgantara official told Jane's on 16 July. "We signed a deal with TAI that allowed our engineers to stay in Turkey to prepare the prototype," said the official

source : Jane's

Goodrich Signs Long-Term Agreement with Alp Aviation for F-35 Lightning II Work

2009-07-21T15:28:00.000+03:00

CHARLOTTE, N.C. --- Goodrich Corporation signed a long-term agreement with Turkey’s Alp Aviation for F-35 Lightning II landing gear components and assemblies. The agreement covers deliveries through December 31, 2015.

Under the agreement, Alp Aviation will supply machined components ranging from aluminum parts to high strength steel components and assemblies that incorporate some of the latest landing gear processing technology. These components will be delivered to Goodrich Landing Gear’s final assembly facility in Cleveland, Ohio. Goodrich is the exclusive system integrator and supplier of landing gear for all variants of the F-35.

Mike Brand, president of Goodrich Landing Gear, said, “This agreement is a significant milestone in our excellent relationship with Alp Aviation that began in 2006. Their capability with the latest technologies along with their culture of teamwork meets our requirement to find best value supplier solutions for complex landing gear components.”

Goodrich supplies a number of critical systems for the F-35 including the air data system, weapons bay door drive system, landing gear, fuel quantity and engine sensors, and actuation systems. Production takes place at Goodrich facilities in F-35 partner nations Australia, Canada, the UK and U.S.

Goodrich Corporation is a global supplier of systems and services to aerospace, defense and homeland security markets. With one of the most strategically diversified portfolios of products in the industry, Goodrich serves a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and service facilities.

Defense-aerospace.com, LINK

Finmeccanica and Thales jointly to build the Turkish Göktürk satellite system

2009-07-18T00:39:00.001+03:00

Rome | Telespazio (Finmeccanica/Thales) and the Turkish Defence Ministry sign contract to build the Göktürk satellite system

Telespazio, a company owned by Finmeccanica (67%) and Thales (33%), and Undersecretariat For Defence Industries (SSM - Turkish Defence Ministry), at the presence of the Italian Undersecretary of State for Defence hon. Giuseppe Cossiga, today signed a contract in Ankara worth over EUR 250 million for the construction of the Göktürk satellite system.

The agreement covers the supply of an earth observation satellite equipped with a high-resolution optical sensor, an integration and test centre for satellites to be built in Turkey, and the entire ground segment of the system, which will carry out in-orbit operation, data acquisition and processing.

The Göktürk programme will be managed by Telespazio as prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space, a company owned by Thales (67%) and Finmeccanica (33%), which will be responsible for the satellite, and local industrial partners including Tai A.S., Tubitak Uekae, Maleri, Aselsan A.S. and Roketsan A.S.. Telespazio will also be responsible for the satellite launch, early orbit and test services.

Giorgio Zappa, Chief Operating Officer of Finmeccanica and President of the Italy-Turkey Friendship Union commented, “signing this contract for the construction of Göktürk represents another step for Telespazio and for the Space Alliance Thales-Finmeccanica in the international expansion of their business, and recognition of Finmeccanica’s capacity to supply both the space and ground components of complex satellite systems.

This success also strengthens the group’s position in Turkey, a strategic industrial partner and a core market for our activities: we are already present in the country in aeronautics, helicopters, air traffic control, transport, rail signalling and naval systems and have further significant growth prospects”.

The Turkish industry will be involved at the system design and development phase and in supplying some sub-systems. In particular, local partners will assist in the building of the data acquisition station, the satellite integration centre, mission planning systems and remotely-sensed data processors. As part of the project, a joint venture will be created between Telespazio and a local partner to develop and market application services.

defpro.com, LINK

Pratt & Whitney and Kale Aero Sign Agreement for Joint Venture Partnership

2009-06-17T15:40:00.001+03:00

PARIS AIR SHOW -- Pratt & Whitney and Kale Havacilik San, A.S., (Kale Aero) of Istanbul, Turkey, signed a memorandum of understanding today at the Paris Air Show with the intent to develop a joint venture partnership to produce aircraft engine components. Under the proposed joint venture, Kale will own 51 percent and Pratt & Whitney will own 49 percent of the joint venture company located in Istanbul. Pratt & Whitney is a United Technologies Corp. company.

"We look forward to the new venture and working with our partners in Turkey," said Tom Farmer, president, Pratt & Whitney Military Engines. "Turkey is an important customer for Pratt & Whitney and we value the industrial capabilities and expertise of the Turkish aerospace industry. This partnership will establish a world-class manufacturing capability to produce military and commercial aircraft engine components for our customers around the world."

The joint venture will specialize in manufacturing hardware for the F135 engine powering the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. In the future, the partnership will expand to support highly complex metal fabrications and spare parts for Pratt & Whitney military fighter engine models F100 and F119, and military transport engine model F117.

"We are happy and proud to embark on this road together with the world's leading aero engine manufacturer, Pratt & Whitney," said Osman Okyay, president, Technical & Chemical Division, Kale Group Companies. "Kale Aero is placing top priority on the F-35 program. We were the first qualified supplier from Turkey selected for this project, the largest defense industry project ever, and we pride ourselves for being the only Turkish company with parts on the first flying F-35 Lightning II aircraft. Kale Aero has also undertaken the task of manufacturing parts for the F135 engine, and our excitement is further enhanced by the fact that through this joint venture partnership, we will greatly expand our contribution to this great engine."

Kale Aero is part of a large and a diversified industrial conglomerate of Turkey, Kale Group. The group embracing over fifty years of experience in building materials is also active in robotics, energy, defense and aerospace. Kale has been a reliable supplier in various national and multi-national defense and aerospace projects since 1989.

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines, space propulsion systems and industrial gas turbines. United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the global aerospace and commercial building industries.

Source : defense-aerospace.com, LINK

Aselsan completes trials of Igla SAM launch system

2009-05-29T19:40:00.002+03:00

Turkish company Aselsan has completed firing trials of a new mobile Igla fire-and-forget surface-to-air missile (SAM) system. During one trial, a single target was successfully engaged by a two-round Igla salvo. Developed by Aselsan as a private venture for the export market, this was a collaborative programme with the Russian Kolomna KBM company, which is the overall design authority for the Igla and Igla-S (SA-16 'Grouse') shoulder-fired manportable air-defence systems (MANPADS). The first example of the new Igla-based system has been integrated onto a Russian BRDM-2 4x4 amphibious scout car, which was purchased by Aselsan and refurbished prior to being modified for its new role

[first posted to http://jmr.janes.com - 28 May 2009]

STM launches comprehensive BMS for Turkish vehicles

2009-05-29T19:39:00.000+03:00

Turkey's STM (Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.S) has outlined the features of its Tank Command Control and Information System (TCCIS), a project to provide the Turkish Land Forces Command's (TLFC's) vehicles with a comprehensive battle management system (BMS). The first indigenously developed system of its kind, the TCCIS has been designed in line with the requirements of the TLFC, and with the support of the Turkish Undersecretariat for Defence Industries and the Scientific and Research Council of Turkey

[first posted to http://idr.janes.com - 28 May 2009]

Dearsan accelerates procurement schedule for Turkish patrol vessels

2009-05-29T18:27:00.001+03:00

Dearsan Shipyard is planning to launch the first of 16 New Type Patrol Boats for the Turkish Coast Guard in December 2009 or January 2010, up to six months earlier than stipulated in the procurement contract. The Istanbul-based company says the schedule will allow it to undertake initial sea trials before delivering the 56 m patrol vessel - pennant number P1200 - to the country's Naval Forces Command

[first posted to http://jni.janes.com - 28 May 2009]

Turkey sets deadline for resolution of Heron UAV problem

2009-05-29T18:26:00.002+03:00

Turkey's Ministry of Defence (MoD) has given Israel until the end of July to solve technical problems with the 10 Heron unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) it has ordered, indicating that it may cancel the project if the difficulties are not resolved by then, Jane's has learned. Turkey has not yet accepted the first two Herons, delivered in November 2008, due to problems encountered by the Israeli manufacturers in installing electro-optical payloads, which are heavier than other similar payloads

[first posted to http://jdw.janes.com - 22 May 2009]

TUBITAK-SAGE unveils new ordnance-guidance system

2009-05-01T19:53:00.001+03:00

A new precision guidance kit (Hassas Gudum Kiti - HGK) was shown for the first time by Turkey's TUBITAK-SAGE at the April 2009 International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul. Designed for use with 2,000 lb Mk 84 bombs, in many respects the HGK resembles Boeing's Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), and provides a similar capability .

Source : Jane's

IDEF 09: Kongsberg and Roketsan join forces in NSM programme

2009-05-01T19:47:00.001+03:00

Roketsan of Turkey has been awarded a EUR5.35 million (USD7.08 million) contract to manufacture launch canister systems for Kongsberg's Naval Strike Missile (NSM) long-range surface-to-surface missile. The canisters will accommodate missiles destined for the five Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates and six Skjold-class fast attack craft being procured by the Royal Norwegian Navy (RNoN)

Source : Jane's

Winning bid in Turkish LCT contest exceeds speed and lift specifications

2009-05-01T19:45:00.001+03:00

The winner of the competition to design and build eight landing craft tank (LCT) vessels for the Turkish Naval Forces exceeded the service's specifications in at least two key areas, Jane's has learned. The craft proposed by the ADIK-Furtrans partnership will have a maximum speed of 22 kt and a military lift capability of up to seven main battle tanks (MBTs) or 17 trucks

Source : Jane's

ASELSAN : Deals with Finmeccanica unit, Chilean army

2009-04-30T17:23:00.002+03:00

* Deals with Finmeccanica unit, Chilean army

* Chilean tank modernisation project seen worth $150 mln

* Shares up 7 pct

ANKARA, April 29 (Reuters) - Turkish defence equipment maker Aselsan (ASELS.IS) said on Wednesday it had agreed to a partnership with a unit of Italy's Finmeccanica (SIFI.MI) for work on defence systems for a new type of submarine.

Under the deal Finmeccanica unit WASS and Aselsan will integrate WASS-manufactured Black Shark torpedoes into the submarine's anti-torpedo defence system.

The agreement on the project, for which no value was given, could be expanded to include torpedo production at a later date, the company said in a statement.

Shares in Aselsan were trading 7.33 percent higher at 4.10 lira, outperforming a positive Istanbul stock exchange.

Germany's HDW and Great Britain's MFI won a tender last July to procure six submarines for Turkey's armed forces. The project is expected to be worth approximately $2.5 billion.

Aselsan said earlier on Wednesday that it planned to sign a contract with the Chilean armed forces to help modernise a fleet of 100 Leopard tanks.

The project with Chile is estimated to be worth $150 million, the company said in a statement to the stock exchange.

Aselsan, which is also working with Lockheed Martin in a multi-nation F-35 fighter jet project, said it was also looking at other partnerships with Chile.

A Turkish Defence Ministry official said on Tuesday that he expected Aselsan's share from the F-35 project to reach $1 billion. (Reporting by Zerin Elci, editing by Will Waterman)

Reuters, LINK

Raytheon Names Roketsan Key Supplier for Patriot Missile Assembly

2009-04-30T16:57:00.001+03:00

TEWKSBURY, Mass. --- Raytheon Company has named a Turkish missile manufacturer as an international supplier of a key component of the Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical (GEM-T).

Under the agreement, Roket Sanayii ve Ticaret A.S (Roketsan) of Ankara, Turkey, will subcontract to Raytheon to integrate and test the control actuation system for the Patriot GEM-T missile for the United Arab Emirates. Working with subcontractors throughout Turkey and the United States, Roketsan will coordinate and perform the major assembly work at its Ankara facility.

Roketsan is Raytheon's first major trans-Atlantic supplier strategically located to support the 11 countries in Europe and Asia, including several in the Middle East, that have chosen Patriot as a key component of their air and missile defense programs.

"Roketsan joins Raytheon as a key strategic partner providing integrated air and missile defense to a growing number of international customers," said Sanjay Kapoor, vice president for Patriot Programs at Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems (IDS). "To have a supplier with Roketsan's track record and technical expertise located in Turkey, the crossroads between Europe and Asia, will enable us to be even more responsive to our current and potential customers in the region.

"Furthermore, Turkey is a stalwart member of NATO and is a key strategic partner of the United States," Kapoor said.

In business since 1988, Roketsan is a proven leader in missile and rocket programs and a major part of Turkey's defense industry.

"We are delighted to be working with Raytheon on the Patriot program," said Huseyin Baysak, general manager at Roketsan. "We have the engineering expertise, experience, talented people, suppliers, and facilities to produce precise and reliable control actuation system assemblies for the GEM-T. Patriot is a combat-proven system ensuring the security of so many countries from air and missile threats. We're proud to be recognized for the capabilities we bring in what has been a very successful program for a long time and is only getting better."

Raytheon IDS is the prime contractor, both domestic and international, for the Patriot Air and Missile Defense weapon system and the system integrator of the PAC-3 missile into the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) system.

Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Global Capabilities Integration providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security.

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 headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

defense-aerospace.com, LINK

SELEX Galileo in the T129 Programme

2009-04-29T16:40:00.000+03:00

ISTANBUL -- SELEX Galileo, a Finmeccanica company, has been selected by AgustaWestland to supply the Air Vehicle Monitoring System (AVMS) designed to provide the Turkish T129 with the following functionalities:

-- Aircraft system interface Data Acquisition, Status Monitoring and Alert generation
-- Managing of maintenance information
-- Managing of digitized information to the Core Data Bus Controller
-- Visualization of Plant Data Management for crew
-- Management of video outputs for Symbol Graphic generation (optional).

The design and development of the AVMS is at its final phase and the first prototype is foreseen to be integrated into the T129 rig by mid 2009. The contract includes the delivery of 7 AVMS prototypes followed by the production of 48 shipsets in the period 2011-2016.

SELEX Galileo is a key player in the market of Aircraft and Mission Management Computers both for fixed and rotary wing aircraft. SELEX Galileo have also recently collaborated with AgustaWestland to provide an improved AMMC Computers for the Merlin version of the AW101 Helicopter; in the past SELEX Galileo has developed and still produce tailored equipment for the NH90 helicopter (i.e. Plant management Computer and Mission Tactical Computer) while since the 80s SELEX Galileo has designed and produced the Aircraft and Mission Management Computers for the AW101 helicopters including the new refurbished computers for the US101 version.

The AVMS is based on a high safety redundant architecture able to provide the whole system functionalities without any discontinuity also in case of a loss of one computer due to possible electrical fault or damage due to other causes (i.e. bullet hits during aircraft operation)

The AVMS Software is another peculiar aspect of the System since it provides a virtual interface of the HW to the customer Application Program. The AVMS Software is developed in compliance with the most recent guidelines (Do178B and Do254) in order to assure a design at high safety level.

The AVMS ship set is composed by two AMMC computers plus a provision for adding a Removable Data Storing Unit (RDSU) together with a dedicated Equipment SW library. Such SW library provides the main Applicative SW with a set of basic functionalities like health monitoring, deterministic scheduler, redundancy manager in addition to the virtualized layer of all the I/O interfaces.

BACKGROUND NOTES:

In March 2007 the AgustaWestland AW129 was selected to meet the Attack and Tactical Reconnaissance Helicopter (ATAK) requirements of the Turkish Land Forces Command and the related contract was signed in September 2007. In accordance to the agreement, Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc. (TAI) is the prime contractor while AgustaWestland and Aselsan are sub contractors.

Moreover, additional leading Turkish aerospace companies are also being involved in the programme with significant industrial benefits for Turkey, including local final assembly, delivery and acceptance of the aircraft. The partners have formed the ATAK TEAM to develop the T129.

defense-aerospace.com, LINK

MKU to showcase Instavest Ballistic over vest in Turkey at IDEF 2009

2009-04-29T16:15:00.001+03:00

New Delhi, April 29 (ANI/Business Wire India): MKU, a global defense solutions company and a pioneer in personal and vehicle protection solutions, is launching the acclaimed Instavest Ballistic over vest in Turkish market during the IDEF 2009.

The IDEF show is in Istanbul starting from April 27-29. The over vest met an equally good reception at LAAD 2009, Latin American Aerospace and Defence Show, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Latin American countries have shown great deal of interest in the world's quickest Release mechanism.

The Instavest ballistic over vest features advanced features and an innovative design to offer enhanced protection and comfort to the user. MKU claims that Instavest is the most revolutionary and advanced ballistic vest available in the world today.

It was regionally launched officially amongst much fanfare by MKU at IDEX '09 at Abu Dhabi earlier this year in February.

Instavest features a new quick release jettison system, which divests the vest immediately from the user's body within a split second in a single action. MKU claims that this new vest, for which it has filed a patent, will change the way soldiers perceive and use a Quick Release Vest.

It claims that Instavest is the fastest quick release vest in the world, both, in terms of taking it off and then reassembling it and putting it on.

"Although there are some other quick release ballistic vests available in the market - all have cumbersome systems to jettison the vest of the users body, once taken off, it is a very cumbersome process to reassemble the jacket back again due to the various wire systems used in the vests, it takes a lot of training and time for a soldier to put it back again and then also chances are that a normal soldier would not be able to put reassemble it a manner which will ensure a safe jettison in the eventuality of an emergency", said Manish Khandelwal, the Business Manager - Personal Protection, MKU.

Manish is also the inventor of Instavest, he claims that 'Instavest from MKU is a jacket that is advanced by design, it is a product which is a result of a lot of research and field trials - it uses no wires or metal parts'.

Manish claims that putting the Instavest on and off is so simple that a person can jettison the vest in less than a second in a single action and then reassemble and put it back on in less than 45 seconds.

more.....

Sikorsky News from IDEF 2009

2009-04-29T16:05:00.002+03:00

Sikorsky Aerospace Services to Explore Joint Venture with MilSOFT ICT

Sikorsky Aerospace Services today announced at the IDEF 2009 - International Defence Industry Fair the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore the formation of a joint venture with MilSOFT ICT to develop, market and support a suite of fleet management software tools. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX). Sikorsky Aerospace Services, Sikorsky Aircraft’s aftermarket business will have a leading role as a partner in the new venture.

The prospective joint venture entity would be located in Ankara, Turkey, and offer sophisticated software, including comprehensive maintenance and material management tools with an advanced suite of diagnostic modules, electronic technical manuals, and web-based training that can be used to support any complex weapons system, including tanks, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), ships and ground vehicles.

“This alliance would provide Turkey with a 21st century fleet management system,” said David Adler, President of Sikorsky Aerospace Services. “The system will aid in lowering operating costs while increasing fleet readiness and availability, both of which are key measures for any aircraft operator. We are confident that together, Sikorsky Aerospace Services and MilSOFT, will exceed the demanding requirements for service and support of the Turkish helicopter fleet.”

Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) Delivers First S-70i BLACK HAWK Helicopter Tailcone

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TAI) today celebrated the delivery of the first tailcone produced by TAI for the S-70i™ BLACK HAWK helicopter to be built in Poland. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).

The tailcone (serial # 001) was shipped recently from TAI’s facility in Ankara, Turkey, to Sikorsky’s affiliate, PZL Mielec, in Poland, where it was joined to the cabin of an S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter earlier this month. Production of the S-70i helicopter at PZL Mielec was planned since the acquisition of the company in 2007. Delivery of the first S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter is expected to occur by the end of 2010, representing a potential increase in BLACK HAWK production for TAI.

As many as 36 S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopters are expected to be produced per year from that facility.

“TAI’s recent delivery of the first tailcone to Sikorsky’s Polish affiliate PZL Mielec brings us one step closer to the delivery of the first S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter, and its introduction to the international community,” said Stephen B. Estill, Sikorsky Vice President, Strategic Partnerships. “The BLACK HAWK helicopter is the workhorse of U.S. Army aviation, used in a multi-mission role in challenging combat environments such as Iraq and Afghanistan, and with this first tailcone delivery, we will write a new history for this aircraft.”

Sikorsky and Turkish Aerospace Industries have had a long relationship in the manufacture of BLACK HAWK helicopter components. Since 2000, TAI has produced more than 1,600 empennage components for Sikorsky’s global fleet of BLACK HAWK helicopter derivatives.

Sikorsky and Alp Aviation Sign Agreement at IDEF

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and Alp Aviation today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) initiating the process to establish Alp as a qualified supplier of International BLACK HAWK helicopter transmission systems. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

A ceremonial signing of the MOU took place at the International Defense Exhibition Fair, where Sikorsky and Alp Aviation also celebrated the 10th anniversary of their joint venture in Turkey.

“Twenty years ago, Sikorsky sold the first BLACK HAWK helicopters to Turkey and began developing its relationship in industrial participation that has grown into a significant business relationship,” said Stephen B. Estill, Sikorsky Vice President, Strategic Partnerships. “This MOU demonstrates Sikorsky’s long-term commitment to Turkey, as its fulfillment would include the transfer of important technology to build transmission systems for the International BLACK HAWK helicopter. Its signing recognizes Alp Aviation as a highly valuable and reliable component manufacturer to support Sikorsky’s offering for the Turkish Utility Helicopter Program and positions Alp to supply the International BLACK HAWK S-70i™ Program. This arrangement also helps in strengthening our position in Europe.”

Tuncer Alpata, President of Alp Aviation, said the MOU strengthens the ongoing and successful relationship between Alp and Sikorsky. “Alp Aviation is proud of this partnership and the trust that Sikorsky has shown in the capabilities of Turkish industry. This technology transfer will continue to strengthen Alp Aviation’s position in the global rotary wing industry.”

defpro.com , LINK1, LINK2, LINK3

FINMECCANICA, ELETTRONICA and HAVELSAN sign a MoU on cooperation in Defence Electronics

2009-04-29T16:01:00.001+03:00

Istanbul | Finmeccanica, the Italian leading aerospace, defence and security company, Elettronica, the Italian leader of electronic defence warfare, and Havelsan, the Turkish company leader of C4ISR systems and simulation products, today announced an agreement - signed during the IDEF expo in Istanbul - for a hi-tech industrial Memorandum of Understanding in the Defence Electronics sector.

Under this MoU, industrial, technological and commercial opportunities will be pursued in Command and Control Systems, Naval Systems, Air Defence, Electronic Warfare and Homeland Security Systems for Turkish, Italian and third countries market.

“Havelsan represents a prestigious partner with extensive resources and the business expertise, whose expansion policy is in perfect harmony with Finmeccanica’s aim to establish a long and fruitful partnership in Turkey and worldwide market”, said Filippo Bagnato, Executive Vice President Technical, Industrial and Commercial of Finmeccanica.
"Havelsan and Finmeccanica represent formidable partners to team with in the Defence Market", said Donato D’Angelantonio, Vice President Business Development of Elettronica S.p.A. "Their combination of capabilities, resources, expertise and existing capabilities will result in developing and producing complete Defence Systems best meeting the requirements of modern Defence platform of Potential Customers in Turkey, Italy and third countries market".

“The reputable stakeholders of this “Agreement”, bring together their best solutions for the market to meet new requirements of modern defense” said Faruk Yarman General Manager of Havelsan.

defpro.com , LINK

Azerbaijan’s “Istiglal” attracts attention at IDEF

2009-04-29T15:58:00.001+03:00

Arms and other defense goods demonstrated by the Azerbaijan Defense Industry Ministry at the 9th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul attracted interest of high-ranking officers of Turkey and other countries.

IST-14.5 Anti-Material Rifle (“Istiglal”) became the most interesting item in the Azerbaijan’s stand, APA reports. Despite its heavy weight 20 kg, the rifle can be used as a machine-gun. It has different optical shooting-mark with a range of 3000 m and can be used comfortably at a temperature of -50…+50 C. It is fast to water, mud, snow, and dust. The rifle can be shared to two parts and carried in the bag.

Azerbaijan exhibited at IDEF its other defense goods, including HE Mortar Bomb of 120 mm caliber, mufflers for machine-guns and other small arms, Seismic Mine Fuze-5 remote automatic detonator, which is able to detonate 10 bombs in 250 m distance.

Azerbaijan Defense Industry Ministry also demonstrated mono- and multilayer electronic printed-circuit boards, armored personnel carriers “Matador” and “Maradeur” produced jointly with Paramount Group, South Africa.

defpro.com, LINK