Thursday, September 29, 2011

DTN News - CHINA SPACE NEWS: China's First Space Lab Module Blasts Off

DTN News - CHINA SPACE NEWS: China's First Space Lab Module Blasts Off

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: China's first space lab module, Tiangong-1, blasted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest desert area on Thursday.

Engineers are conducting the final preparations before launching China's first space laboratory module at the end of this week at a launch center in northwest China.

The unmanned Tiangong-1 module was originally scheduled to be launched into low Earth orbit between Sept. 27 and 30. However, a weather forecast showing the arrival of a cold air mass at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center forced the launch to be rescheduled for Sept. 29 or 30, depending on weather and other factors.

"This is a significant test. We've never done such a thing before," said Lu Jinrong, the launch center's chief engineer.

A full ground simulation was conducted on Sunday afternoon to ensure that the module and its Long March 2F carrier rocket are prepared for the actual launch.

Cui Jijun, commander-in-chief of the launch site system and director of Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, told Xinhua that they developed a new target spacecraft for the mission and made more than 170 technical improvements to the Long March 2F, China's manned orbital carrier rocket.

Engineers have also made more than 100 updates at the launch site in order to make it compatible with the Tiangong-1, Cui added.

The module will conduct docking experiments after entering orbit, which is the first step in China's space station program.

Cui said the launch site has an updated computer center and command monitoring system and increased ability to adapt to changes in mission conditions, as well as the resources to handle both the launch and command duties. An integrated simulation training system for space launching has also been developed for the docking mission.

The mission comes just one month after the Long March 2C rocket malfunctioned and failed to send an experimental satellite into orbit. The Tiangong-1 mission was subsequently rescheduled in order to allow engineers to sort out any problems that might occur during the launch.

Cui said that engineers conducted a two-month comprehensive technical check on equipment at the launch site from March to May. The safety and reliability of all the instruments have been significantly improved.

"[The launch site] has the full conditions to conduct the Tiangong-1 mission," said Cui.

The Tiangong-1 will remain in orbit for two years. During its mission, it will dock with China's Shenzhou-8, -9 and -10 spacecrafts.

Unmanned docking procedures will be an essential step toward China achieving its goal of establishing a manned space station around 2020.


DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: Libyan National Transitional Council Fighters Bombard At Pro-Gaddafi Outposts In Sirte

DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: Libyan National Transitional Council Fighters Bombard At Pro-Gaddafi Outposts In Sirte

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: Libyan National Transitional Council (NTC) fighters close their ears as a tank shells positions for Moamer Kadhafi loyalists from an outpost on the west side of Sirte on September 29, 2011 as Kadhafi diehards fought pitched battles with combatants loyal to Libya's new rulers for control of the ousted despot's birthplace Sirte. (Photo - Getty)

DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: Libyan National Transitional Council Fighters On The Outskirts Of Bani Walid

DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: Libyan National Transitional Council Fighters On The Outskirts Of Bani Walid

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: Camels sit in front of tanks belonging to Libyan National Transitional Council (NTC) fighters on the outskirts of Bani Walid on September 29, 2011.

Anti-Kadhafi forces urged NATO to intensify its air war as they took heavy losses in a push on the ousted Libyan despot's birthplace Sirte and his other remaining bastion, Bani Walid. (Photo - Getty)

DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: Final Battle For Sirte, Last Two Bastions Of Pro-Gaddafi Forces

DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: Final Battle For Sirte, Last Two Bastions Of Pro-Gaddafi Forces

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: Anti-Gaddafi fighters walk with their weapons to join other fighters during clashes with pro-Gaddafi forces, about 1 km (0.6 miles) from the entrance of Sirte, September 28, 2011.

Intense sniper and artillery fire from pro-Gaddafi fighters has so far prevented National Transitional Council (NTC) forces from taking Sirte despite more than two weeks of fighting and two full-on assaults.

One of Muammar Gaddafi's last two bastions, it has withstood a siege, NTC tank and rocket fire as well as NATO air strikes, and the United Nations and international aid agencies are worried about conditions for civilians trapped inside. . (Photo - Reuters)

DTN News - AFGHAN WAR NEWS: Pakistani Islamic Militants Are Creating Hindrance To NATO Supples For Afghanistan

DTN News - AFGHAN WAR NEWS: Pakistani Islamic Militants Are Creating Hindrance To NATO Supples For Afghanistan

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: Trucks carrying NATO supplies are parked at the Pakistani border post Chaman as they wait to crossover into neighboring Afghanistan on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2011.

Pakistani authorities have closed one of the two border crossings used by trucks carrying NATO war supplies into Afghanistan after a bomb hit an oil tanker. (Photo - Reuters)

DTN News - INDIA DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing P-8I Aircraft Completes 1st Flight


DTN News - INDIA DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing P-8I Aircraft Completes 1st Flight

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: Boeing's [NYSE: BA] first P-8I aircraft for the Indian Navy completed its initial flight today, taking off from Renton Field at 12:02 p.m. Pacific time and landing two hours and 31 minutes later at Boeing Field in Seattle.

During the flight, Boeing test pilots performed airborne systems checks including engine accelerations and decelerations and autopilot flight modes, and took the P-8I to a maximum altitude of 41,000 feet prior to landing. In the coming weeks Boeing will begin mission systems installation and checkout work on the aircraft at a company facility near Boeing Field.

"The P-8I program is progressing well and we are looking forward to this potent platform joining the Indian Navy as part of its fleet," said Rear Adm. DM Sudan, assistant chief of Naval Staff (Air), Indian Navy.

"The P-8I will provide India with the necessary speed and reliability to satisfy the Indian Navy's maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare requirements," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing India president.

Based on the Boeing Next-Generation 737 commercial airplane, the P-8I is the Indian Navy variant of the P-8A Poseidon that Boeing is developing for the U.S. Navy. In order to efficiently design and build P-8 aircraft, the Boeing-led team is using a first-in-industry, in-line production process that draws on the company's Next-Generation 737 production system.

"Flying the first P-8 for an international customer is a key milestone for our entire team," said Leland Wight, Boeing P-8I program manager. "We have transitioned to P-8I production, and remain on track to deliver the first aircraft to the Indian Navy in 2013."

The P-8I is the first of eight long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft Boeing is building for India as part of a contract awarded in January 2009. An option for four additional P-8I aircraft was included in the original contract.

The aircraft features open system architecture, advanced sensor and display technologies, and a worldwide base of suppliers, parts and support equipment.

The P-8I is built by a Boeing-led industry team that includes CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Spirit AeroSystems, BAE Systems and GE Aviation.

Boeing, the world's leading aerospace company and the largest manufacturer of commercial jetliners and military aircraft combined, has significantly expanded its footprint in India in both civil aviation and defense. India has selected the P-8I to fulfill its long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine requirements and the C-17 Globemaster III for its strategic and tactical airlift needs.

Boeing is partnering with India’s leading technology and manufacturing companies to build a supply chain out of India. The company has opened a Research and Technology center in Bengaluru to collaborate with India's technical talent for research in aero structures, materials and network systems. Boeing also has an Analysis & Experimentation Center (AEC) in Bangaluru, which in partnership with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) provides modeling, analysis capability and defense experimentation in support of the Indian Armed Forces. Boeing India's corporate office is in New Delhi. For more information on Boeing India, visit www.boeing.co.in.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

DTN News - KOREAN DEFENSE NEWS: South Korea To Be Built Naval Base Near Disputed Islands

DTN News - KOREAN DEFENSE NEWS: South Korea To Be Built Naval Base Near Disputed Islands

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: South Korea will build a naval base near an island claimed by both Seoul and Tokyo so that its warships can deploy faster than Japan's in case of disputes, a lawmaker said Wednesday.

Chung Mi-Kyung of the ruling Grand National Party said the government would build a US$300 million naval base on Ulleung island by 2015.

Ulleung is the closest South Korean territory to the Seoul-controlled islets in the Sea of Japan (East Sea) which are known as Dokdo in Korean and Takeshima in Japan.

Chung cited data from the transport ministry which would partly finance the project, saying construction would begin in 2012. The ministry confirmed the report.

The new base will feature a 300-metre (990-feet) pier big enough to accommodate Aegis destroyers and the 14,000-tonne amphibious landing ship named Dokdo, Chung said.

"It will help strengthen our territorial rights on Dokdo as our naval ships can reach the islands quickly in times of disputes with Japan," she said in a statement.

Once the base is complete, Seoul would be able to send its ship to Dokdo in an hour and a half compared to the current four hours, she said. Japan's ships would take about three hours.

South Korea has for decades deployed a small marine police force on the rocky islets.

The dispute over them flared up again in June when Korean Air mounted a test flight of its new aircraft over Dokdo. Tokyo in response ordered its public servants to boycott Korean Air for a month.

Three conservative Tokyo lawmakers who intended to visit Ulleung to reassert their country's claim to Dokdo were refused permission to enter South Korea in early August.

South Korea the same month lodged a strong diplomatic protest against Japan's 2011 defence white paper, which describes the islands as Japanese territory.

Older South Koreans still have bitter memories of Japan's harsh colonial role over Korea from 1910-45.

DTN News - BOEING DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing KC-46 Tanker Program Completes Integrated Baseline Review

DTN News - BOEING DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing KC-46 Tanker Program Completes Integrated Baseline Review

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 29, 2011: The Boeing [NYSE: BA] KC-46 Tanker program successfully completed its Integrated Baseline Review (IBR) with the U.S. Air Force on Aug. 24 at Boeing program headquarters in Mukilteo. The assessment, attended by senior Air Force program officials, validated the program’s technical scope and finalized key milestones for the design and development phase of the Air Force's next-generation aerial refueling tanker.

"We remain on plan with the KC-46 development program from a technical, schedule and cost perspective," said Maureen Dougherty, Boeing vice president and KC-46 Tanker program manager. "The IBR process reinforces that we have the right technical baseline, management approach and staffing levels in place to execute this contract. We're well positioned to deliver our first 18 combat-ready tankers in 78 months."

With IBR complete, the program now will focus on milestones that include a Preliminary Design Review in the first quarter of 2012, a Critical Design Review in the third quarter of 2013, and the KC-46 tanker's first flight in early 2015.

Since contract award on Feb. 24, Boeing's KC-46 Tanker program has completed the Air Force System Requirements Review as well as the 767-2C Provisioned Freighter Preliminary Design Review and Firm Configuration. The latter review marks the end of the preliminary configuration development phase for the Boeing commercial airplane on which the KC-46 tanker is based.

Boeing received a contract to build 179 next-generation aerial refueling tanker aircraft that will begin to replace the Air Force's fleet of 416 KC-135 tankers. The contract calls for Boeing to design, develop, manufacture and deliver 18 initial combat-ready tankers by 2017.

Based on the proven Boeing 767 commercial airplane, the KC-46 tanker is a widebody, multi-mission aircraft updated with the latest and most advanced technology to meet the demanding mission requirements of the future, including a digital flight deck featuring Boeing 787 Dreamliner electronic displays and a flight control design philosophy that places aircrews in command to maximize combat maneuverability. The KC-46 also features a modernized KC-10 boom with a fly-by-wire control system, and a refueling envelope and fuel offload rate that is greater than the KC-135 it will replace.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 64,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.

DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: GADDAFI'S FAMILY STILL HAUNT LIBYA

DTN News - SEARCH FOR GADDAFI: GADDAFI'S FAMILY STILL HAUNT LIBYA

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 28, 2011: A still image from video broadcast by a Syria-based television station on September 27, 2011 shows what the station describes as Muammar Gaddafi's son Saif al-Islam rallying his forces at an unidentified location in Libya on September 20.

It was not immediately possible to verify the footage.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

DTN News - IRAQ DEFENSE NEWS: Iraq Signs Deal To Buy 18 F-16 Warplanes

DTN News - IRAQ DEFENSE NEWS: Iraq Signs Deal To Buy 18 F-16 Warplanes

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 27, 2011: Iraq has signed a contract to buy 18 Lockheed Martin F-16 warplanes to bolster its air force, an adviser to Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki said on Monday.

The value of the deal was not immediately known, but a senior U.S. military official said recently the offer on the table for the Iraqi government was valued at "roughly $3 billion."

Iraqi and U.S. military officials have said strengthening its air force is one of Baghdad's top priorities as U.S. troops prepare to leave by December 31, more than eight years after the invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein.

"The contract was signed ... and a part of the contract cost was sent to the bank account of the company," said Maliki's media adviser, Ali al-Moussawi.

Lockheed said in a statement it looked forward to a partnership with Baghdad and was "pleased with the confidence Iraq places in our products." It declined to comment on the specifics of the deal, referring questions to the Iraqi and U.S. governments.

The Pentagon said it was aware of news reports that Iraq had signed the agreement but did not immediately confirm and referred questions to Baghdad.

Iraq has long sought a combat jet for its rebuilt air force. The government delayed a planned purchase of F-16s in February to divert a $900 million down payment to its national food ration program to help quell street protests.

Maliki said on July 30 Iraq would buy 36 F-16s, double the number it had originally planned, to shore up its weak air defenses. The OPEC producer has found itself flush with cash this year, reaping windfall profits as world oil prices have remained above budget projections.

The two sides have been negotiating for the F-16 Block 52 export model with sophisticated avionics and weapons in a deal that included maintenance and training, a U.S. military official said.

Iraq is relying on the U.S. military for air support as it rebuilds its forces and battles a stubborn Islamist insurgency. Washington and Baghdad are discussing whether to keep some U.S. troops or military trainers in Iraq beyond the year-end deadline for U.S. departure.

Iraq's two airborne defense units, the Air Force and Army Aviation Command, have only 158 aircraft, including 89 helicopters and 69 airplanes, and about 7,500 personnel, according to U.S. figures.

At present, it has three Cessna Caravan propeller planes equipped with Hellfire missiles but no combat jets, a U.S. military official said.

(Additional reporting and writing by Jim Loney; Editing by Tim Pearce and Todd Eastham)

DTN News - PAKISTAN NEWS: Pakistan Pushes Back Against U.S. Charges, Woos China

DTN News - PAKISTAN NEWS: Pakistan Pushes Back Against U.S. Charges, Woos China

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 27, 2011: Pakistan warned the United States on Tuesday to stop accusing it of playing a double game with Islamist militants and, facing a crisis in relations with its ally, heaped fresh praise on "all-weather friend" China.

Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani, speaking exclusively to Reuters, said any unilateral military action by the United States to hunt down militants of the Haqqani network inside Pakistan would be a violation of his country's sovereignty.

However, speaking from his office in Islamabad, he side-stepped a string of questions on the tense relations with the United States and offered no indications of any steps Pakistan might take to soothe the current fury in Washington.

The outgoing chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, last week described the Haqqani network, the most violent faction among Taliban militants in Afghanistan, as a "veritable arm" of Pakistan's ISI spy agency and accused Islamabad of providing support for the group's September 13 attack on the U.S. embassy in Kabul.

"The negative messaging, naturally that is disturbing my people," Gilani said in the interview. "If there is messaging that is not appropriate to our friendship, then naturally it is extremely difficult to convince my public. Therefore they should be sending positive messages."

Since Mullen's comments, Pakistan has launched a diplomatic counter-attack, and attempted to drum up support from its strongest ally in the region, China.

DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated September 26, 2011

DTN News: U.S. Department of Defense Contracts Dated September 26, 2011

(NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - September 26, 2011: U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) Contracts issued September 26,2011 are undermentioned;

CONTRACTS

NAVY

Huntington Ingalls, Inc., Pascagoula, Miss., is being awarded a $697,629,899 fixed-price-incentive contract for DDG 114 construction. On June 15, 2011, Huntington Ingalls was awarded a $783,572,487 fixed-price-incentive contract for DDG 113 construction. At the time of contract award, the Navy did not release the contract award amount because it was considered source selection information. For DDG 114 construction, significant amounts of work will be performed in Pascagoula, Miss.; Cincinnati, Ohio; Walpole, Mass.; York, Pa.; Charlottesville, Va.; Erie, Pa.; and Burns Harbor, Ind. Work is expected to be completed by July 2018. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was procured via a limited competition between Huntington Ingalls and Bath Iron Works. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-11-C-2305).

AIR FORCE

Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co., Sunnyvale, Calif., is being awarded a $94,770,783 cost-plus-award-fee contract modification to the existing engineering, manufacturing, and development contract for the Space Based Infrared System high component. This action will exercise two options that deliver logistics and sustainment support in fiscal 2012. Work will be performed in Boulder, Colo. Space and Missile Systems Center, Space Based Infrared Systems Directorate, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., is the contracting activity (F04701-95-C-0017 P00710).

The Boeing Co., Defense, Space & Security, Long Beach, Calif., is being awarded a $39,855,050 firm-fixed-price contract modification for 17 landing gear overhauls for C-17 aircraft. Work will be performed in Long Beach, Calif. ASC/WLMK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8614-04-C-2004 P00401).

Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded an estimated $36,887,906 cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery and requirements contract to collect, analyze, interpret, and evaluate data from several external and internal pandemic influenza project activities that are designed as Center for Disease Control and Preventions’ primary responsibility in the overall national response to a potential influenza pandemic. ESG/PKS, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., is the contracting activity (SP0700-00-D-3180, Delivery Order 0730).

Lockheed Martin Corp., Fort Worth, Texas, is being awarded a $24,363,993 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract modification for the F-22 Program to provide sustaining engineering and depot partnering task associated with non-destructive inspection organic capability, hypoxia root cause analysis, titanium crack growth, site activation, slider seals, and radar cross section turntable. ASC/WWUK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8611-08-C-2897 P00098).

Monday, September 26, 2011

BHGSG News: Hollywood Actresses Shiva Rose, Laura Harring And Marisa Tomei Attending Function In W. H. Ca

BHGSG News: Hollywood Actresses Shiva Rose, Laura Harring And Marisa Tomei Attending Function In W. H. Ca

BHGSG News - HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: Actresses Shiva Rose, Laura Harring and Marisa Tomei attend CHANEL and Liz Goldwyn Celebrate 'Chanel: Her Life' By Justine Picardie at Soho House on September 22, 2011 in West Hollywood, California.

A general view of atmosphere at CHANEL and Liz Goldwyn Celebrate 'Chanel: Her Life' By Justine Picardie at Soho House on September 22, 2011 in West Hollywood, California.

BHGSG News: John Abraham And Genelian D'Souza Promoting Their Forthcoming Movie 'Force' In Kolkata

BHGSG News: John Abraham And Genelian D'Souza Promoting Their Forthcoming Movie 'Force' In Kolkata

BHGSG News - HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: Indian Bollywood personalities John Abraham (L) and Genelian D'Souza pose during a press conference in Kolkata on September 26, 2011. Abraham and D'Souza are in the city to promote their forthcoming action thriller film 'Force'.

BHGSG News: Paris Hilton Showing Her New Collection Of Handbags In Mumbai India

BHGSG News: Paris Hilton Showing Her New Collection Of Handbags In Mumbai India

BHGSG News - HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: US socialite Paris Hilton poses for photographers with a select collection of handbags during a news conference in Mumbai on September 24, 2011.

Hilton, is in the city to unveil Fall-Winter collection designs of her handbags and accessories. Hilton is also expected to meet many celebrities and Bollywood actors during her three-day stay in Mumbai.

DTN News - BOEING DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing Delivers UAE's 4th C-17 Globemaster III

DTN News - BOEING DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing Delivers UAE's 4th C-17 Globemaster III

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced today the delivery of a fourth C-17 Globemaster III to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force and Air Defence from the company's C-17 final assembly facility in Long Beach.
Boeing delivered the UAE's first three C-17s in May, June and July of this year and will deliver two more in 2012.

The C-17 -- the world's leading tactical and strategic airlifter -- provides the UAE military with the versatility and reliability needed to complete its mission requirements.
"The C-17 is the ideal choice for us, as it can handle the vast distances and climate extremes in which our aircraft operate," said Col. Staff Engineer Ahmed Al Mazmi, who officially accepted the fourth C-17 for the UAE.

"Boeing and its partnership of suppliers worldwide are proud that the UAE continues to show its commitment to the C-17," said Bob Ciesla, Boeing C-17 program manager. "Every humanitarian mission that the UAE Air Force flies around the world with its C-17s is another confirmation of the unique capabilities of this airlifter."

The UAE's first three C-17s have been engaged in multiple global missions to deliver humanitarian aid to the victims of natural disasters, and have supported military missions where needed and requested by allies.
The C-17 is able to transport payloads up to 170,000 pounds, can fly 2,400 nautical miles without refueling and can be used to transport troops and brigades for airdrop missions and to conduct aeromedical evaluations.

As a member of the worldwide C-17 "virtual fleet," the UAE's C-17s are supported through the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III Sustainment Partnership, a performance based logistics program. The GSP "virtual fleet" arrangement ensures mission readiness by providing all C-17 customers -- with varied fleet sizes -- access to an extensive support network for worldwide parts availability and economies of scale when purchasing materials.

Boeing has delivered 235 C-17s worldwide -- 211 to the U.S. Air Force, including active duty, Guard and Reserve units, and 24 to international customers including the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Qatar Emiri Air Force, and the 12-member Strategic Airlift Capability initiative of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations. India's Ministry of Defence will acquire 10 C-17s that will be delivered in 2013-2014.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 64,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.

DTN News - BOEING DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing QF-16 Aerial Target Program Demonstrates Software For US Air Force

DTN News - BOEING DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing QF-16 Aerial Target Program Demonstrates Software For US Air Force

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: The Boeing [NYSE: BA] QF-16 Full Scale Aerial Target program in August became the first target program to conduct software tests in a systems integration lab (SIL) environment. The program demonstrated key capabilities for the U.S. Air Force during a program review and tour.

Boeing supplier partner BAE Systems conducted the demonstration at the SIL in Johnson City, N.Y. The SIL tests the hardware components and software together to ensure their ability to communicate with each other and with the ground-based control system. Testing in the SIL saves time and ensures mission effectiveness prior to flight testing and production.

Boeing received the $70 million QF-16 engineering and manufacturing development contract in March 2010. Initial production of six QF-16 test aircraft is on schedule to begin later this month at Cecil Field near Jacksonville, Fla. The first test flight is scheduled for February.

"We have started QF-16 system integration testing on schedule, after standing up the SIL in 14 months," said Bob Insinna, Boeing QF-16 program manager. "We started with simulations, and now are testing real flight hardware and software to reduce risk when we integrate at the aircraft level. QF-16 is the first target program to use a SIL, so our customer is new to this and thrilled with the capability. It is another way that we bring value to our customer."

The QF-16 production contract, when awarded, will convert up to 126 retired F-16s into QF-16 full-scale aerial targets -- manned and unmanned -- to test newly developed weapons and tactics.

BAE Systems is a major subcontractor to Boeing on the QF-16 program, jointly developing key software and providing the design and development of the Automatic Flight Control Computer and SIL.

BAE Systems is a global defense and security company with approximately 100,000 employees worldwide. The company delivers a full range of products and services for air, land, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions, and support services. BAE Systems' Electronic Systems sector, headquartered in Nashua, N.H., has operations spanning commercial and defense electronics markets and offers a broad portfolio of mission-critical electronic systems, from flight and engine controls to electronic warfare and night vision systems, surveillance and reconnaissance sensors, secure networked communications equipment, and power and energy management systems.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 64,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.

DTN News - OSHKOSH DEFENSE NEWS: Future Of Military Vehicle Capabilities From Oshkosh Defense On Display At Modern Day Marine

DTN News - OSHKOSH DEFENSE NEWS: Future Of Military Vehicle Capabilities From Oshkosh Defense On Display At Modern Day Marine

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK), will showcase a range of cutting edge vehicle platforms and technologies to serve the U.S. Marine Corps in its exhibit at Modern Day Marine 2011 in Quantico, Va.

The Oshkosh Light Combat Tactical Vehicle (LCTV) will be on display at the show. Designed to demonstrate the future of light tactical vehicle technologies – including improved off-road mobility and exportable power capabilities – the LCTV has been independently developed and tested by Oshkosh Defense. The vehicle completed the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 off-road race in the Mexican desert in 2010. Lessons learned during the race and feedback from the field have advanced the development of technologies available to the Marine Corps today, including Oshkosh offerings for upgrading the HMMWV fleet.

“Oshkosh Defense has developed industry-leading mobility and protection solutions for the Marine Corps’ heavy and medium fleets for years, and we are expanding our efforts with extensive R&D work to bring the light fleets up to a new level of performance,” said John Bryant, vice president and general manager of Marine Corps Programs for Oshkosh Defense. “We’ve developed an upgraded HMMWV using our battle-tested TAK-4® independent suspension system to give Marines improved mobility, survivability and ride quality.”

Oshkosh also will exhibit its innovations with exportable power solutions to meet the increasing energy demands of modern military equipment, in accordance with the DoD Operational Energy Strategy. A Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) with On-Board Vehicle Power (OBVP), which can export up to 120 kW of military-grade power and reduce the need for generators, will also be on display. The MTVR with OBVP can deliver enough energy to power a command center, city block or small airport, and is currently in testing with Marines.

Vehicles and Advanced Technologies on Display

*The Oshkosh LCTV technology demonstrator
*Oshkosh’s upgraded HMMWV, equipped with the Oshkosh TAK-4 independent suspension system
*The MTVR with OBVP
*An MTVR 8x8 with Load Handling System (LHS) featuring a 16.5 ton payload capacity and steering rear axles for improved maneuverability
*In an outdoor display, the Oshkosh Heavy Recovery System (HRS) technology demonstrator will showcase new performance, mobility and protection for U.S. Armed Forces’ recovery vehicle fleets. Oshkosh Defense developed the HRS based on the proven Logistics Vehicle Replacement System (LVSR) platform and cutting edge wrecker technology from Jerr-Dan, an Oshkosh Corporation company

Oshkosh executives will be available to discuss the vehicles and technologies at booth #2404 during the show, which is taking place Sept. 27-29 at the Marine Corps Base in Quantico.

BHGSG News: Paris Hilton Dazzles In Red Saree

BHGSG News: Paris Hilton Dazzles In Red Saree

BHGSG News - HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: Dressed in a red monotone saree, the 30 years old fashion icon made all her fans go gaga about her style and grace. In a simple look with red colour saree Paris Hilton launched her line of handbags in Mumbai.

The diva has been promoting the monotone trend and nothing better than a traditional saree could have been better. Moreover within 21 hours she has grown as a great fan of Indian beauty, style and accessories. So Paris wishes to take these beautiful saree and Indian accessories with her back home.

Well, this is just a beginning. There are few more suprises stored in with Paris Hilton the style diva. So hold your heart for more glittering surprises.



DTN News - JAPAN DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing, US Navy Deliver Proposal To Equip Japan Air Self Defense Force With Advanced Super Hornets

DTN News - JAPAN DEFENSE NEWS: Boeing, US Navy Deliver Proposal To Equip Japan Air Self Defense Force With Advanced Super Hornets

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the U.S. Navy have delivered a proposal to the government of Japan offering the advanced F/A-18E Super Hornet Block II to become the Japan Air Self Defense Force's (JASDF) next premier fighter aircraft. The F/A-18E Block II is the United States' newest operational and combat-proven fighter aircraft. Japan issued a Request for Proposal for its F-X fighter competition on April 13, with a deadline of Sept. 26.

"The Super Hornet is the world's most advanced multirole fighter and its selection would provide the Japan Air Self Defense Force with new, unprecedented capability," said Boeing Japan President Mike Denton. "The Super Hornet can provide the government of Japan with guaranteed pricing and a guaranteed delivery timeline, while equipping the JASDF with superior multirole capability for the defense of Japan.
"Having conducted business in Japan for more than 50 years, Boeing is excited about the extensive technical design and manufacturing opportunities the Super Hornet would bring to many areas of Japanese industry," added Denton.

The advanced Super Hornet version offered to Japan is based on the F/A-18E/F model operated around the globe by the U.S. Navy. The Royal Australian Air Force is also procuring the aircraft and has taken delivery of 20 F/A-18Fs at its base in Amberley, Queensland. Four additional Super Hornets will be delivered to Australia this year.

"We believe the Super Hornet is an optimal solution for the operational requirements of the Japan Air Self Defense Force," said Boeing Military Aircraft President Chris Chadwick. "While the competitor aircraft specialize in either air-to-air or air-to-ground operations, the Super Hornet is a true multirole fighter, with the proven operational capability to seamlessly conduct air dominance or precision strike missions across the combined air, ground, maritime and electronic battlespace."

The Boeing Super Hornet is a multirole aircraft, able to perform virtually every mission in the tactical spectrum, including air superiority, day/night strike with precision-guided weapons, fighter escort, close air support, suppression of enemy air defenses, maritime strike, reconnaissance, forward air control and tanker missions. The Super Hornet Block II provides the most advanced strike fighter capability available. With date-certain deliveries, cost-certain production and proven combat capability, the Super Hornet is the low-risk, high-end multirole fighter solution for the United States and its global defense partners. Boeing has delivered more than 460 Super Hornets to the U.S. Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force. Every Super Hornet produced has been delivered ahead of schedule and on budget.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 64,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.

Sunday, September 25, 2011

DTN News - LOCKHEED MARTIN NEWS: Seventh Dyess C-130J Super Hercules Delivered

DTN News - LOCKHEED MARTIN NEWS: Seventh Dyess C-130J Super Hercules Delivered

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: The seventh of 28 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft takes off for Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, on Sept 22, 2011. By 2013, Dyess will have the distinction of being home to the largest C-130J fleet in the Air Force.

The C-130J is the newest version of the Hercules and the only model still in production. Externally similar to the classic Hercules in general appearance, the J-model features considerably updated technology. These differences include new Rolls-Royce AE 2100 D3 turboprops with Dowty R391 composite scimitar propellers, digital avionics (including head-up displays (HUDs) for each pilot), and reduced crew requirements. These changes have improved performance over its C-130E/H predecessors, such as 40% greater range, 21% higher maximum speed, and 41% shorter takeoff distance. The J-model is available in a standard-length or stretched -30 variant.

The seventh of 28 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft takes off for Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, on Sept 22, 2011. By 2013, Dyess will have the distinction of being home to the largest C-130J fleet in the Air Force.

Media Contact:
Chad E. Gibson
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Communications Manager, C-5 Program
Office: (770) 494-3847
Mobile: (678) 761-4623
www.facebook.com/supergalaxy
www.lockheedmartin.com/products/c5

DTN News - AIRLINES NEWS: Boeing, ANA Complete Contractual Delivery Of First 787 Dreamliner

DTN News - AIRLINES NEWS: Boeing, ANA Complete Contractual Delivery Of First 787 Dreamliner

(NSI News Source Info) HONG KONG - September 26, 2011: Boeing (NYSE: BA) and ANA have signed the formal documents completing the contractual delivery of the first 787 Dreamliner. Celebrations to mark this historic milestone begin tomorrow in Everett with a delivery ceremony followed by flyaway of the airplane on Tuesday. Today's signing comes after a series of flights, inspections and the transfer of funds.

"Now that the airplane is ready to deliver, the entire team is ready to celebrate," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. "We look forward to honoring our launch customer ANA before they fly their first Dreamliner home to Japan."

Celebrations for Boeing employees begin Monday at 6 a.m. (Pacific time) outside the 787 factory in Everett with the static display of ZA002, one of the flight test airplanes painted in ANA's livery. ANA and Boeing executives, employees, partners and government officials will gather at 9 a.m. for the delivery ceremony in the same location. Airplane 24, painted in ANA's special livery, will join the display during the ceremony. Flyaway of the airplane to Tokyo is scheduled Tuesday morning at 6:35 a.m. from Paine Field.

A live webcast of Monday's delivery events and Tuesday's flyaway can be seen at www.newairplane.com. Video highlights of those events also will be posted to the website.
"ANA has been a tremendous partner from day one," said Fancher. "Through the hard work and challenges, the Boeing team never lost focus on the commitments to our valued customer. We know ANA's customers will love this airplane."

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is an all-new airplane featuring a host of technologies that provide exceptional value to airlines and unparalleled levels of comfort to passengers. It is the first mid-size airplane capable of flying long-range routes, enabling airlines to open new, non-stop routes preferred by the traveling public.

Composite materials, more-electric systems, advanced aerodynamics and modern engines combine to make the 787 more fuel efficient and provide lower operating costs. Passengers will appreciate the cleaner cabin air, higher humidity and lower cabin altitude that combine to help them feel more refreshed after flying on the 787. Other innovations include larger windows with electrochromic shades, bigger onboard luggage bins and LED lighting.

DTN News - HONGKONG NEWS: Vibrant Hong Kong - September 25, 2011


DTN News - HONGKONG NEWS: Vibrant Hong Kong - September 25, 2011

(NSI News Source Info) Hong Kong - September 25, 2011: Hong Kong is a former British Dependent Territory which became a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China with effect from 1 July 1997. Hong Kong continues to have high autonomy in the running of its affairs under a one country, two systems concept.

Hong Kong is a vibrant city, and a major gateway to China. This page will give you the facts about Hong Kong – from the form of government to the languages used.

In Hong Kong there is something new around every corner. This morning's sightseeing tour includes visits to Stanley Market where you can stroll through this seaside village bazaar, and the famous fishing village of Aberdeen for a chance to ride in a "Sampan".