Noticias Aeronáuticas del Mundo (archivo)

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Bueno, yo hablo mas de estetica que de diseño en si. Una cosa es que "tenga un aire" y otra cosa es que lo calquen. El F-35 entra dentro de esa "estetica", pero tambien en el grupo de consideraciones de las que hablamos. El problema del Raptor es que su diseño furtivo se cerro mucho antes de que se le quisieran incorporar reformas. Y un diseño furtivo es una cosa que no se puede tocar sin joder la futividad. Diferente habria sido que desde el principio hubieran querido incorporarle ciertas cosas.

Los Rusos en realidad, y por lo visto ultimamente, parecen mas influenciados esteticamente por el manga.

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RAF's Latest Eye in the Sky Gathers Info on Taliban
UK Ministry of Defence
The RAF's fifth and final Sentinel R1 ASTOR (Airborne Stand-Off Radar) aircraft has recently returned from successful trials in Afghanistan where it was used to gather information about enemy activity.

The Sentinel, which has been converted from Bombardier Global Express business jets, with its ASTOR system can detect and recognise moving, static and fixed targets on the ground and in the air, and are capable of operating for more than nine hours at a time. The information gathered is transmitted to ground stations to enable rapid tactical planning and the efficient cueing of assets.

Today, Tuesday 10 February 2009, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support Quentin Davies visited the equipment at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, the RAF's Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) hub, and also home of the E3D Sentry and Nimrod R1 aircraft and 5 (Army Co-operation) [AC] Squadron who own the Sentinel R1 aircraft. Mr Davies said:

"This hugely sophisticated system has already demonstrated what it can do to support operations in Afghanistan. In a trial of the system last year, the Sentinel aircraft and its associated ground stations proved they can feed information about the movements of enemy forces to ground commanders in near real time."

"The ASTOR system enables our forces to learn about the movement of enemy forces and react to prevent threats to our troops. It is clear to me that we are spending nearly one billion pounds of taxpayers’ money very effectively."

5 (AC) Squadron is a rare mix of Army and RAF servicemen, and a handful of Royal Navy personnel.

Group Captain Harry Kemsley, Officer Commanding 5 (AC) Squadron, said:

"This system is about answering the questions that the customer on the ground needs answering - getting the information soldiers need to the soldiers. The ability to look beyond the range of the eye, binoculars and rifle sight is now available with our system. We are here to support land forces and we shall do it very well.

"5 (AC) Squadron personnel and supporting elements continue to build on the lessons identified from their recent operational experiences in order to further develop the capability of ASTOR. The utility of the system across both military and humanitarian spectrums is significant and wide-ranging, and we are working closely with potential customers to ensure that our training is relevant and targeted to their requirements."

The new system will prove very useful to ground forces in Afghanistan. Major Will Tosh, Intelligence Corps Detachment Commander, said:

"The ASTOR system was closely embedded within 3 Commando Brigade during the trial and provided a near real time, wide area search capability on operations for the first time. It worked in unison with troops on the ground delivering timely intelligence and situational awareness to those on the front line. The brigade was very impressed and the flexibility of the system surprised them."

The radar on RAF Sentinels works in all weathers, day and night, by looking down to the ground and 'staring' at the target area from high level while the aircraft flies in a straight line. The radar transmits pulses and receives target information as it moves while building up a 'picture' of the target area.

State-of-the-art computers and software allow rapid processing of the information. Data is transmitted to mobile or static ground stations for immediate use by commanders on the ground. The equipment is so sophisticated it is able to produce a near photograph-quality image of the ground from radar readings.

ASTOR is also designed to communicate with a wide range of other systems and networks and is therefore at the heart of the UK's Network Enabled Capability.

The fully operational ASTOR system comprises five Sentinel R1s flown by two aircrew and at least three radar operators.

In the culmination of the £954m contract, Raytheon Systems Ltd has now delivered the last in a batch of five aircraft to 5 (AC) Squadron. The contract also includes eight mobile ground stations. Raytheon will continue to deliver support services to the system over the next ten years.

MOD Defence Equipment and Support ASTOR team leader, Bill Chrispin, said:

"Delivery of the final aircraft is a huge milestone for us and for our contractor. Now our work will concentrate on achieving the full operational capability of the system at the earliest opportunity."

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India kicks off South Asia's biggest airshow
Agence France-Presse
Bangalore, India: South Asia's biggest airshow opened here Wednesday with firms from 25 countries showcasing their latest hardware in a chase for multibillion-dollar contracts with the Indian military.

Despite the global economic downturn, nearly 600 armament and aerospace companies -- half of them from overseas -- are taking part in this year's Aero India event in Bangalore.

Regional rival Pakistan has not been invited to the five-day event but China is participating for the first time, said India's Defence Production Secretary Pradeep Kumar.

Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours have soared in the wake of last November's attacks in Mumbai, which India blames on a Pakistan-based Islamist group.

Despite the deepening global slowdown, India's million-plus military says it cannot cut defence spending and plans to hand out contracts worth 30 billion dollars in the next three to four years.

The defence budget accounts for 2.5 percent of GDP and India has imported military hardware worth 28 billion dollars since 2000.

"There is no question of scaling down our defence expenditure... or compromising with our acquisition programmes despite the economic recession," said Defence Minister A.K. Antony.

"India has emerged as an attractive market and a key outsourcing hub for global aerospace firms due to low-cost, skilled engineers, good organisations, software and technology," Antony added.

India's state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd said it had won a contract to sell locally built advanced light helicopters to Ecuador.

"We will be selling five helicopters to Ecuador," a spokesman said, declining to specify the size of the deal.

The sale buoyed India's hopes of finding a significant export market for its first domestically built helicopter. It also hopes to find buyers for a supersonic cruise missile it has jointly built with Russia.

US defence firm Raytheon, which last year signed deals with eight local firms to develop military electronics, has offered its Airborne Standoff Radar systems to help India reinforce its coastline defences.

India began beefing up offshore security after the Mumbai attackers travelled unnoticed by sea.

"We are open to joint development of products," a Raytheon spokesman said.

"After the Mumbai attacks, we're making all-out efforts to prevent similar kind of incidents by making our armed forces and intelligence agencies work together as a team and equipping them with the latest arms," minister Antony said.

Leading the pack of countries sending 303 international firms to the event are Germany and France with 31 firms each. Twenty-six British, 24 Russian and 22 US firms are also present, along with 289 Indian defence companies.

Among the prime pickings is a 12-billion-dollar deal for 126 fighter jets. Six major aeronautical firms competing for the contract are participating in the air show.

Besides the 126 fighter jets, transport aircraft and AWACS, India also plans to buy 700 helicopters worth 3.5 billion dollars, artillery, warships and other hardware for billions of dollars.

Israel, which replaced France in 2007 as India's second-largest arms supplier after Russia, has sent its top 10 defence firms.


Su-30 Fighter Aircraft - Aero India 2009, Air Show

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Saab Leverages India for Gripen Next Generation Development
Saab AB
Saab and TATA Consultancy Services (TCS) partnered Aeronautical Design and Development Centre (ADDC) has been awarded its first contract by Saab to participate in the aerostructural design and development for Gripen Next Generation.

This will enable ADDC to play a pivotal role in development activities in different Saab products. The announcement of ADDC’s first contract was made on a well attended press conference held in Bangalore in India yesterday.

In September 2008, Saab and TCS, part of the TATA group, signed a Letter of Intent to set up an aeronautical development and design centre in India, called ADDC. The ADDC is a long term relationship with Saab undertaking to transfer technology and competencies in the aerospace sector.

The ADDC is set up with an aim to provide engineering, services and solutions, and to address market opportunities in areas such as structures, systems, avionics and after market support. The ADDC will address the requirements of the global and Indian aerospace and defence markets.

The ADDC allows Saab to set a footprint in India together with TCS to capture opportunities emerging in the aerospace and defence sector.

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Dutch F-16 Fighter Planes: Ready For Scrapheap or Not?
Radio Netherlands
The Dutch Ministry of Defence's plan to replace its F-16 fighter planes by 2014 is premature, according to research carried out at Leiden University by Bert Kreemers.

Mr Kreemers, a former Defence Ministry spokesman, says that given the planes' generally accepted lifespan of 6,000 flight hours, and that they are used for 175 hours or less per year, most of the fighters can remain in service until at least 2020. The oldest ones date back to 1984. Other countries are assuming an 8,000-hour lifespan for the plane, suggesting that the Dutch defence forces could retain this jet fighter even longer, Mr Kreemers told NOS Radio.

Last December, Deputy Minister of Defence Jack de Vries warned Parliament that maintenance costs for the ageing F-16s will increase sharply by 2015, and ruled out the possibility that keeping the machines after 2021 would be a viable option.

Back in 1990 it was discovered that certain parts of the aircraft had a lifespan of no more than 3,000 hours, rather than the 8,000 that Lockheed Martin had specified for the F-16 as a whole, necessitating a thorough overhaul programme.

On its website, the Dutch Defence Ministry adds that the F-16s are "aging operationally", i.e. they are becoming less suitable to counter the changing threats they face in action.

Costs unclear

The replacement for the F-16s, which has to be decided on next year, is a politically sensitive issue. The Dutch government is planning to sign a contract in May for the purchase of two new F-35 planes, usually referred to as the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), without knowing the actual cost of this purchase. These US-built planes would be the first of 85 JSFs that are due to replace the current Dutch fleet of 138 F-16s.

The Dutch Audit Office last week criticised the Ministry of Defence for failing to provide adequate information about the JSF. The JSF Program Office reckoned in 2002 that the planes would cost 37.2 million dollars each; by 2007 that price had risen to 49.5 million. This could saddle the Dutch budget with extra expenses of 360 million, the Audit Office warned.

Estimates of the production cost of the JSF plane have consistently been too low, as US Defence Undersecretary John Young explained to Secretary of Defence Robert Gates in a memo leaked last week via insidedefense.com.

In that memo Mr Young writes that this is partly due to cost calculations being based on the experimental prototypes, whose weight was lower than that of the final design.

Alternatives

Meanwhile, public and political resistance to the JSF project is growing in the Netherlands. People living near military airbases are worried about a fourfold increase in noise pollution produced by the more powerful and louder JSF engines, which has been predicted by a US report.

MPs are complaining that the current government hesitated too long before finally deciding to examine other, cheaper alternatives. Although the centre-left coalition of Christian Democrats, Labour and the small Christian Union party remains committed to the JSF test programme, it has now agreed to another independent investigation into other potential suppliers, as required by Parliament.

The most recent comparison of alternative planes was carried out in 2008, well before the onset of the economic crisis.

The JSF contract

In 2002 the Dutch cabinet of then Prime Minister Wim Kok signed a contract with the US government, agreeing to participate in the development of the Joint Strike Fighter, and paying an investment sum of 858 million dollars for the privilege.

In return the Americans promised Dutch industry would receive substantial orders to help with production of the plane. Dutch companies that agreed to participate in the JSF programme promised they would repay the government 3.5 percent of their turnover once they became involved.

However, seven years on, few of the compensation orders from the US have materialised, say industry leaders.

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EADS Fully Committed to Succeed In A400M Programme
EADS
AMSTERDAM: EADS reaffirms its full commitment to deliver on the European A400M Military Transport Aircraft programme and welcomes the public support given by the French Senators today towards making this exceptional aircraft a success – an aircraft that represents a “brickstone of sovereignty” for the European Defence, as the Senators outlined.

Concerning overcosts, in contrary to statements made in media reports, EADS confirms that no indication can be given today beyond the provision of 1.7bn euros already taken, as long as a binding industrial plan, which includes the availability of systems, is not stabilised and not before the outcome of discussions with OCCAR. This is in line with what the audit commission of the French Senate on the A400M has expressed.

EADS made a proposal to OCCAR at the end of 2008 to enter discussions to redefine certain technical and contractual specifications of the programme. According to the announcement of January 9, EADS confirms that the delay between the first flight and the first delivery of the A400M Future European Military Transport Aircraft will be three years. The Group is working with the engine consortium to define the date for this first flight. The group is simultaneously studying possibilities to facilitate the production ramp-up.

EADS is more than ever determined to deliver on this programme which is one of the most ambitious European Defence Programmes designed to produce an aircraft of exceptional performance. The state-of-the-art technologies will make the A400M an aircraft of the future, designed to be operational for many decades. This aircraft features second-to-none capabilities compared to any currently existing strategic and tactical military transport aircraft.

At the same time, EADS is reorganising the structure of the programme. Following EADS CEO Louis Gallois’ proposal, the EADS Board of Directors had decided in December 2008 to integrate the A400M programme under the sole lead of Airbus thus simplifying and clarifying its lines of responsibility.

The French parliamentary report presented today does not question the actual status of the A400M as previously communicated by EADS.

EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2007, EADS generated revenues of EUR 39.1 billion and employed a workforce of about 116,000. The Group includes Airbus as the leading manufacturer of commercial aircraft, with Airbus Military covering tanker, transport and mission aircraft, Eurocopter as the world's largest helicopter supplier and EADS Astrium, the European leader in space programmes from Ariane to Galileo. Its Defence & Security Division is a provider of comprehensive systems solutions and makes EADS the major partner in the Eurofighter consortium as well as a stakeholder in the missile systems provider MBDA.

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Maiden Flight of Dhruv Helicopter Featuring Ardiden 1H1 Turboshaft Engines
Turbomeca
BANGALORE, India: The Aero India trade show in Bangalore is the occasion for Turbomeca to report the successful maiden flight of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Dhruv helicopter. Featuring two Ardiden 1H1 series production engines, this flight took place on January 12 at the HAL Helicopter Division, Bangalore, India.

The Ardiden 1H1 engine, to be certified in India under the name ‘Shakti’, demonstrated excellent aeromechanical behavior during this maiden flight, confirming its performance capabilities in demanding flight conditions at altitude on the Leh base in north India.

HAL’s Chairman, Ashok K Baweja, commented, "We are very confident about the Turbomeca Ardiden 1H1 program. HAL has already received the first five engines integrating components of our definition."

The Ardiden 1H1 has been designed to carry out the most demanding missions at altitude and in hot and cold weather. Developed in cooperation with HAL as part of an industrial partnership agreement signed in February 2003, this engine combines simplicity, state-of-the-art technology, robustness and modernity, and all for a significantly lower cost of ownership in comparison to its competitors.

The Dhruv has a take-off weight of 5,500 kg and will initially equip the Indian Armed forces. Under the February 2003 agreement, several hundred engines are to be produced over the next 10 years.

The Indian Ministry of Defence has ordered 159 Dhruv helicopters to date.

This new turboshaft engine is the latest addition to the broad Turbomeca range, the most extensive on the market today.

Twin Turbomeca Engines for the Dhruv

The Dhruv helicopter features two different Turbomeca engines based on the TM333-2B2 and Ardiden 1H1 / Shakti engines.

The TM333 2B2, certified by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) in December 2001, was also selected by HAL to power the Dhruv. With a take-off power of 1,100 shp, the engine’s simple modular architecture combines reliability, easy maintainability and low fuel consumption. HAL has placed orders for several hundred engines, with more than 250 already delivered.

The design of the Ardiden 1H1 / Shakti is fundamentally different, boasting a take-off power of 1,200 shp and an emergency rating 30% higher than that of the TM333 2B2. The engine’s performance is particularly suitable for high altitude, hot and cold weather conditions.

Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,350 customers in over 155 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 26 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. Microturbo, the subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

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Russia At Aero India 2009 - a New Format of Strategic Cooperation with India
Rosoboronexport
The 7th Biennial International Aerospace Exhibition, Aero India 2009, will be held at the Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bangalore, India, from 11 to 15 February 2009. Its organizer is India’s Ministry of Defense.

The present exhibition will be a significant event not only for the Asia Pacific region, but also for the world’s major manufacturers of combat and civilian aerospace equipment and air defense facilities. The air show is expected to be dominated by India’s tender to supply the national Air Force with 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA).

Nearly 600 foreign and domestic companies will be showcasing their products at Aero India 2009. This stems from a desire amongst major aircraft manufacturers to enter competition for large arms procurement orders under the Indian Air Force Modernization Program. In turn, many countries in the region show interest in modern combat planes and helicopters, weapons and avionics as well as in upgrading their national military arsenals.

Certainly, the global financial crisis has somewhat affected the arms market. However, its impact on military-technical cooperation turned out not to be as severe as on the other sectors of the world economy. This primarily pertains to the countries not dependent on petrodollars.

Specialists and guests will be able to see tens of various combat and civilian planes. Helicopters will be widely exhibited which is caused by the Indian Army’s plans to procure 500 light helicopters in the coming ten years to meet the needs of its airmobile units.

The exhibitors will showcase a diverse lineup of training facilities, engines, avionics, missile and bombing armament.

According to RF Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation’s decision, the Rostekhnologii State Corporation is the organizer of the Russian exposition. The federal state unitary enterprise Rosoboronexport, the sole state intermediary agency in the field of military-technical cooperation with foreign countries, will participate in Aero India 2009 under the aegis of the State Corporation. The unified Russian delegation is headed by Alexander Fomin, first deputy chairman of the RF Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation. Viktor Komardin, deputy director general of Rosoboronexport, will head the enterprise’s delegation.

A 1,000 sq. m exhibition area will accommodate stands of 20 Russian exhibitors displaying armaments, military equipment, and aerospace products as full-scale hardware, models, advertising leaflets and posters.

The content and dimensions of the Russian stands, planned meetings and negotiations will be focused on further strengthening Russia’s military-technical cooperation with its long and reliable partners in MTC as well as on looking for new would-be purchasers of aircraft and armaments made by Russia independently or jointly with foreign partners in production.

India, hosting this traditional air show, has been our most important strategic partner for over several decades. Moscow and Delhi currently implement the 2001-2010 Military-Technical Cooperation Program valued at US$ 18 billion. Most defense deliveries under the Program have been completed or are in the final phase. In December 2008, the Intergovernmental Commission for MTC defined a strategy for the bilateral relations in the period through 2020.

Among the ongoing major projects are the delivery of Mi-17V-5 transport helicopters to the Indian AF, license production of Su-30MKI aircraft and T-90S tanks, and Il-38 maritime patrol aircraft modernization. In addition, the Russian defense industry fulfills Indian delivery orders for MiG-29K, MiG-29KUB fighters and Ka-31 helicopters.

The trend seen in recent years is a growing Indian industry’s involvement in the development and production of Russian aircraft for the Indian Air Force. The bilateral cooperation is advancing to a qualitatively new level: from arms deliveries to in-depth joint R&D efforts, purchase of Russian technologies and licensed production of armaments and military equipment in India. Our MTC features a high level of cooperation and trust in carrying out joint R&Ds and production of armaments and military equipment. This meets Moscow and Delhi’s strategic and mutually beneficial interests.

Much attention is paid now to the joint Multi-Role Transport Aircraft (MTA) program. The MTA is initially planned as a double-use transport. It has to meet the demanding requirements of the military and yet be commercially attractive. The technical and financial risks involved are shared between Russia and India. Once launched into production, the new aircraft will replace military transports operational with the two countries.

Another contract signed by Rosoboronexport late last year calls for active joint development efforts on a fifth-generation fighter. It is planned that the future aircraft will use a new platform with up-to-date technical components, including stealth technologies. The fighter will combine super maneuverability and supersonic speed, long range and high counter-air defense capability. It will be fitted with a new-architecture multifunction avionics suite.

In the engine area, Russia has transferred to India production documentation for such a high-tech product as the RD-33 Series 3 aircraft engine. Our country is developing the AL-55I turbojet intended to power the Indian HJT-36 trainer.

Over the past 40-plus years the volume of Russian and Indian military-technical cooperation has exceeded US$ 35 billion. India accounts for around one third of Russia’s total arms exports. Moreover, aircraft products make up the bulk of the deliveries. Such a large-scale and growing pattern of the partnership relations helps further strengthen the traditional friendly ties between our nations and armed forces. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev’s visit to India held early last December confirmed this once again.

India has always strived to buy the newest weapons from Russia. That is why it now possesses the most up-to-date weapons and military equipment. The Russian defense industry and Rosoboronexport’s exhibit at Aero India 2009 will contribute to the expansion and strengthening of the cooperation.

Russia’s MiG-35 fighter will surely draw strong interest among the guests and exhibitors. It was on display at the previous exhibition in Bangalore, but now the visitors and specialists will be able to see and assess the flight performance of the machine that has embodied the Indian AF’s best operating experience with previous MiG aircraft. It is this aircraft that will compete in the tender to supply 126 MMRCA fighters to the Indian AF.

The Russian aircraft has perfect aerodynamic lines and has acquired incredible super maneuverability, owing to an exclusive thrust vector control technology. None of MiG-35’s rivals can boast such capability which gives it an undeniable edge in real air combat. Furthermore, heavy use of composites in the frame has made the aircraft less observable to enemy radars. The fighter’s double weapons load and 1.5-fold higher fuel capacity compared to its predecessor are also its irresistible benefits.

The Zhuk-AE active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar is a unique component of the MiG-35, which was proposed for the tender by Rosoboronexport and Russian Aircraft Corporation (RSK) MiG. The radar can track up to 30 targets and attack simultaneously up to six most dangerous of them. Its target detection range of 140-160 km also wins admiration and can be further extended to 250-280 km when more receive/transmit modules are used. Along with its powerful precision-guided weapons, high-performance active self-defense system and superb performance characteristics, the lightweight MiG-35 has turned into a medium-sized aircraft – a superfighter of the 21st century.

The participants and guests of the show will be able to be convinced once again of the advantages of the Su-30MK2 multi-role super maneuverable fighter intended to win air superiority and engage surface and ground targets with precision weapons. The fighter can effectively perform missions both independently and as part of a group in any weather.

Visitors will also be able to get acquainted with the performance characteristics and capabilities of the Yakovlev Yak-130 combat trainer. Its aerodynamic layout and powerplant and system parameters allow flying in almost all flight conditions typical of current and future combat aircraft.

The Russian delegation will also demonstrate the Mi-35M transport/attack helicopter. Its combat capabilities and flight performance have been markedly improved through installation of a day/night surveillance and targeting system, new engines and a new rotor system. It can operate 24 hours a day in hot climate and mountain conditions. The Mi-35M is the sole attack helicopter in the world capable of handling assault, airlift and medevac missions.

The lineup of Russian helicopters includes also the Mi-26 heavy-lift military transport helicopter, the world’s biggest freighter. It can carry equipment and large-sized cargos weighing up to 20 tons inside the cabin and externally. In terms of load-carrying capacity, the Mi-26 is comparable to the US C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft.

Rosoboronexport’s stand displays air defense weapons as well. The Tor-M1 and Buk-M2E SAM systems, able to effectively destroy enemy tactical and strategic planes, helicopters, cruise missiles and other targets, offer a great export potential.

“India and Russia are the countries possessing high-tech capabilities and having a long history of mutually beneficial military-technical cooperation,” said Viktor Komardin, head of Rosoboronexport’s delegation. “We’ve taken part in all the seven air shows in Bangalore. We hope that during meetings and talks with our partners in MTC at the exhibition we’ll implement the accords reached during the recent visit by President Dmitry Medvedev to India as well as prepare new mutually beneficial agreements and establish promising contacts.

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New Engine for Indian Jaguar Aircraft For Superior Mission Capability
ELAHANKA: Honeywell today announced its F125IN engine, a 9850lbf (43.8kN) thrust engine that will deliver high performance, improved pilot safety, lower maintenance and outstanding reliability.

“This thrust class engine is built around Honeywell’s proven expertise in the design and production of aircraft systems, which is evident in the F125IN engine, an outstanding propulsion system for military aircraft,” said Vicki Panhuise, Honeywell Vice President, Military Aircraft. “The engine will transform the Indian Air Force Jaguar aircraft by improving mission performance, enhancing pilot safety, reducing pilot workload, and reducing maintenance events and costs.”

The F125IN powerplant, which is currently being considered for the Indian Air Force Jaguar re-engining program, is significantly lighter and much more powerful than the aircraft’s current engine. It has an advanced dual full-authority digital engine control (FADEC) system, modular construction, integrated engine health monitoring system and best in class thrust-to-weight ratio – all designed to give the military the best engine with the lowest operating and maintenance costs.

“The F125IN will provide the Indian Air Force Jaguar fleet with a modern, reliable and safe propulsion system that will transform the capabilities, performance and safety of the aircraft in combat,” Panhuise added. “In significantly improving single engine thrust performance, this increases pilot safety and aircraft survivability.”

In 2007 the F125IN was successfully demonstrated for the Indian Air Force in Bangalore. The engine is projected to save the Indian Air Force more than Rupees 7000 Crores ($1.5 billion) in life-cycle costs compared to other upgrade options being considered. The F125IN permits the Jaguar to perform missions never before possible with the current engine.

The F125IN is the designation of the F125 engine for the Jaguar application, benefiting from more than 540,000 hours of operational experience on the F125. The non-afterburning version of this engine is the F124 aircraft engine, which has a long record of demonstrated success in powering military aircraft, including three highly successful re-engining programs.

Superior mission reliability is delivered by the F125’s resistance to bird strikes, low unscheduled engine removal rate and low in-flight abort rate. The F125IN modern on-condition engine maintenance design leads to maximum time-on-wing, extending the first off-wing inspection interval to over 10 years of service.

The F124-GA-200 engine provides primary propulsion power for the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 aircraft. In 2008 Honeywell’s International Turbine Engine Company (ITEC) was awarded a contract to deliver F124-GA-200 engines to Alenia Aermacchi for its Advanced Jet Trainer M-346. The F124-GA-200 is a low bypass ratio engine selected in numerous competitions for its ability to meet the most rigorous requirements of modern trainers. It is the latest variant in the F124 family that also includes the F124-GA-100 for the Aero Vodochody/CzAF L-159 and the Boeing/DARPA X-45A UCAV.

A global diversified technology and manufacturing leader, Honeywell has significant operations in cities throughout India, with more than 8,000 people working in multiple locations. Honeywell has several partnerships in India, including the licensed manufacture of the TPE331 engine by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Honeywell International is a $37 billion diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Phoenix, Honeywell’s $12 billion aerospace business is a leading global provider of integrated avionics, engines, systems and service solutions for aircraft manufacturers, airlines, business and general aviation, military, space and airport operations.

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C-5M flies in on the wings of Dover AFB heritage
US Air Force
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE: The C-5M's wheels screeched to a halt on the Dover Air Force Base flightline and taxied in front of Hangar 706, where a crowd eagerly awaited the arrival of the first Super Galaxy. Seated in that crowd were four Airmen who ushered in Dover's strategic airlift era with the delivery of the base's first C-5 Galaxy almost 40 years ago.

Tom Dennis, Les Finney, Dr. Willie Curtis and Bob Valeski, crewmembers of the original C-5A delivered to Dover AFB in 1971, were present once again to witness a new era of military airlift Feb. 9.

While the C-5M was received with pomp and circumstance, it was business as usual when the 9th Airlift Squadron crew delivered Dover's first C-5 April 16, 1971.

"There was not a big deal made out of the arrival of the C-5A, but I knew we were part of history," said retired major and C-5 pilot Mr. Dennis, who lives in Dover and retired in 1977. "After we flew in with the aircraft, it was just another day. We finished up and got ready for work the next day."

The refurbished C-5M, named Spirit of Global Reach, was delivered by Gen. Arthur J. Lichte, Air Mobility Command commander, who accepted the symbolic key to the C-5M in front of Dover's total force audience and key civic leaders. The ceremony included the U.S. Air Force Band Ceremonial Brass Quintet, the base honor guard and speeches by Lockheed Martin representatives, government officials and military leaders.

During the ceremony, General Lichte asked the four original crewmembers to stand and receive their long overdue recognition. Silhouetted by the backdrop of flags, brass and the new aircraft, the cadre of Dover's original C-5 aircrew were finally acknowledged in front of their Air Force family.

"I felt proud to be part of the program [delivering the C-5A to Dover AFB] and having the trust of my commander and the crewmembers," said Dr. Curtis, former senior master sergeant and squadron standardization loadmaster, who retired in 1978. "I was proud of the excellent transition in airlift missions of the U.S. Air Force and Dover Air Force Base."

Dr. Curtis said he was delighted when he received the invitation to take part in the C-5M delivery ceremony and to meet up with his fellow crewmembers who accompanied him that historic day in April.

"Getting the invitation to be here brought back a lot of good memories," said Mr. Finney, a former C-5 engineer and chief master sergeant who spent 28 years on active duty. "Our C-5 crew flew missions to Vietnam, Iran, Alaska and all over the world. It was great to be part of that team."

One such mission that the first C-5s flew was in 1977, which involved hauling a 40-ton electromagnet from Chicago to Moscow in support of a joint energy research program between the two countries . That mission earned the crew the Mackay Trophy, awarded yearly by the Air Force for the "most meritorious flight of the year" by an Air Force person, persons or organization.

"I have been out of the Air Force for over 20 years," said Mr. Finney, who retired in 1984. "I miss it. I miss flying. I miss the people. I saw a lot of the old guys I flew with over the years sitting in that audience, other guys from the squad who had also retired. It was like a homecoming."

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Mantis System Makes International Debut At Aero India 2009
BAE Systems
NEW DELHI. India: Visitors to Aero India 2009 will for the first time get a glimpse of BAE Systems vision of the future capability of autonomous Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) when its MANTIS system goes on show to demonstrate to a new audience the technological developments that will shape future UAS capability.

MANTIS is a programme jointly funded by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) and UK industry to develop an autonomous Unmanned Aircraft System. The exhibition will be home to a full mock up of the large twin engine aircraft and will demonstrate MANTIS’ unique autonomous mission system capability through a fully operational Ground Control Station.

Andy Wilson, Business Development Director with Autonomous Systems and Future Capability at BAE SYSTEMS, said: “India has a projected large requirement for UASs and is currently expanding its UAS operations. UASs are expected to play a significant role in reconnaissance and long endurance surveillance missions in India and the MANTIS System is a large next generation highly capable system that is ideally suited to work of this kind.”

MANTIS is a fully autonomous next generation UAS, meaning it flies itself throughout the whole mission and the payload automatically detects and manages all target information. Autonomy greatly increases the effectiveness of operations by allowing commanders to focus on the overall task not vehicle control. This allows significantly reduced workload and manpower for operations, reduces risk of accidents due to human error and reduces communications/data link requirements between the vehicle and the ground.

Final assembly of the first aircraft is well underway and this will be followed by a period of ground testing to help prepare it for its first flight, which is due to take place over the next few months.

The MANTIS UAS advanced concept technology demonstrator programme will bring together technologies, capabilities and systems that will demonstrate the potential of a large unmanned aircraft to support future operational needs.

During phase one of the programme, BAE Systems has been working alongside the UK MOD and key UK industrial parties including Rolls-Royce, QinetiQ, GE Aviation, SELEX Galileo and Meggitt.

Andy added: “MANTIS is designed to carry out intelligence gathering at long distances. It’s a large platform with a wingspan of over 20 metres and it carries a significant payload in terms of sensors and potential weaponry. This phase of the programme will demonstrate that we have the capability to meet future operational needs.”

MANTIS is BAE Systems’ first genuine fly-by-wire, all-electric controlled aircraft; in MANTIS there are no hydraulics allowing the system to be broken down to fit into a C130 Hercules making it extremely deployable. MANTIS is designed to be a real workhorse with “plug and play” elements in the mission system and the ability to carry a wide range of sensors.

Key to the design philosophy for MANTIS is the ability to operate the system and transfer intelligence data collected independently of third party influence or infrastructure.

BAE Systems is the premier global defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 97,500 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £15.7 billion (US $31.4 billion) in 2007.

slds,

moises

[Ismael]

Diaro ABC de hoy:

EADS emprende el desmantelamiento de la industria aeronáutica española

ANTONIO POLO | MADRID Lunes, 16-02-09
Si el Gobierno socialista no mueve ficha en las próximas semanas, la industria aeronáutica española corre el riesgo de perder el tren tecnológico y jugar un papel residual en el futuro, con un coste laboral incalculable.
El próximo 1 de abril concluye el proceso iniciado por el consorcio europeo EADS -en el que España posee una participación del 5,5% a través de la SEPI-, para integrar la División de Aviones de Transporte Militar (MTAD) bajo el paraguas de Airbus, el mayor constructor de aviones del mundo con sede en Toulouse (Francia).
La decisión de incorporar lateralmente la MTAD conlleva en la práctica la pérdida del control de la única unidad de EADS dirigida íntegramente por España, heredera de la tecnología desarrollada durante años por Construcciones Aeronáuticas (CASA). Además, la estrategia impulsada con firmeza por el alemán Tom Enders, consejero delegado de Airbus, pone fin a su autonomía contable -en 2008 facturó 3.000 millones de euros-, presupuestaria, estratégica y deja en el aire la viabilidad de 4.500 empleos directos de alta cualificación y otros 40.000 indirectos procedentes de la industria auxiliar. Y sobre todo un futuro prometedor, porque las previsiones para 2020 apuntan a un volumen de negocio de 20.000 millones de euros en este jugoso segmento de la industria militar.
La MTAD engloba las actividades en España de Airbus Military, dedicada a la construcción de aviones de transporte ligeros, medios y pesados de carácter militar, cuyo máximo exponente es el A400M. Su responsable es Carlos Suárez, quien además es presidente de Airbus Military, de EADS CASA, y miembro del comité ejecutivo de EADS.
Pese al relativo poder que ha disfrutado dentro del gigante europeo, la realidad es que la posición actual de Suárez se ha ido debilitando de forma paulatina por su creciente oposición a un proyecto puesto encima de la mesa en otoño de 2008, que por oscuras razones ha cambiado de rumbo sin previo aviso a partir del consejo de administración celebrado por EADS el pasado 12 de diciembre.
El origen del conflicto aflorado en las últimos meses gira en torno al programa A400M, un avión de transporte militar en el que participan ocho fuerzas aéreas europeas integradas en la OTAN, entre las que se encuentra España. Aprobado en 2003, el proyecto acumula problemas y retrasos que han sido aprovechados por EADS para reorganizar la estructura de la división militar y, de paso, aglutinarla en Airbus. De fabricar los estabilizadores horizontales de los aviones, ensamblarlos, realizar las pruebas de vuelo y entregarlos a los clientes, España puede convertirse en un mero actor secundario si el Gobierno no lo remedia.
Louis Gallois, consejero delegado de EADS, mantuvo una reunión a primeros de diciembre con la Administración española para explicar el alcance del plan que, sobre el papel, tiene sentido estratégico porque incrementa la efectividad de la división, la simplifica, reduce costes, elimina las ineficiencias gubernamentales y crea una marca global.
En apoyo a su visita, Gallois remite el 9 de diciembre de 2008 una carta al ministro de Industria, Miguel Sebastián, comunicándole que la MTAD será integrada para convertirla en la división militar de Airbus, respetando su españolidad, tal y como recogen los acuerdos suscritos entre EADS y el Gobierno en enero de 2004.
Dos días más tarde, el 11 de diciembre, Teresa Santero, secretaria general de Industria, envía una carta al consejero delegado de EADS precisando que la reordenación propuesta desde Francia está exclusivamente motivada por el retraso del A400M, e incide nuevamente en que la MTAD debe mantenerse bajo pabellón español. Santero aprovecha la ocasión para recordarle a EADS el incumplimiento de algunas reivindicaciones históricas planteadas por España.
Si el Gobierno no consigue mantener la españolidad del programa se abre un programa incierto para 4.500 empleos directos de alta cualificación
Al cabo de unas horas, Gallois responde con una nueva carta aceptando que Airbus Military siga siendo española y gestionada por un español, pero obvia hacer referencia a la integridad de la unidad (estrategia y cuenta de pérdidas y ganancias propias) y sólo cita el mantenimiento en España del centro de excelencia de materiales compuestos.
El 12 diciembre el consejo de administración de EADS, en el que España está representada por el ex ministro socialista Juan Manuel Eguiagaray, aprueba la inclusión de la MTAD en Airbus y fija el 1 de abril como fecha tope para concluir el proceso de reorganización.
A partir de esta fecha y en contra de lo acordado por el consejo de EADS, Airbus comienza a hablar en todos los contactos telefónicos y escritos que mantiene con España de «integración total».
¿Por qué se cambia de planteamiento en tan breve espacio de tiempo? Ninguna de las fuentes consultadas lo sabe, pero lo cierto es que los esfuerzos de Suárez con Enders y Fabrice Bregier, director general operativo de Airbus, resultan infructuosos, hasta tal punto que el día 21 de enero Santero vuelve a enviar otra carta a Gallois para intentar clarificar el proceso. Sin embargo, tal y como reconocen las fuentes consultadas, Gallois adopta una postura de no intervención y se mantiene en un segundo plano escénico.

Paralizar el proceso

Tras el consejo de EADS celebrado el 27 de enero en Getafe, y a la vista de que la situación no cambia, Carlos Suárez decide paralizar el proceso y el 1 de febrero remite una misiva a Gallois y Enders en la que entre otras cosas afirma que «en las actuales condiciones no me siento en posición de continuar discutiendo sobre el proceso de integración de MTAD en Airbus». Según reconocen fuentes próximas a la negociación, Suárez se siente «engañado» por el equipo directivo de Airbus.
El 2 del mismo mes Gallois responde a Santero con una carta vaga de intenciones, que es aprovechada por la secretaria general de Industria para proponerle una reunión el miércoles 11. Por razones de agenda el encuentro se traslada al día 12. De esta forma, el pasado jueves se reúnen en Madrid el ministro Miguel Sebastián, Louis Gallois y el secretario de Estado de Defensa, Constantino Méndez.
El alcance de esta decisiva reunión no ha sido desvelado. De hecho, ni siquiera las fuentes de EADS consultadas conocen su existencia, aunque la enmarcan en la ronda emprendida por Gallois -el pasado viernes visitó Alemania- para explicar el nuevo papel militar de Airbus dentro del consorcio.

[Iris]

EUROFIGHTER: Marcan Record en Ruta a AERO INDIA 2009




Una escuadrilla de cazabombarderos EUROFIGHTER Typhoon de la Fuerza Aérea de Alemania (LUFTWAFFE), en ruta hacia la exhibición AERO INDIA 2009 en Bangalore, marcó el record de vuelo continuo con este avión de combate europeo. El vuelo sin escalas desde la base de Laage en Alemania hasta Abu Dabi, desde donde continuaron después hacia la India fue cubierto en ocho horas y media.

Los Typhoon de la LUFTWAFFE son una de las atracciones principales de la presente versión de AERO INDIA, donde son parte del esfuerzo que está haciendo EUROFIGHTER GMBH para adjudicarse la licitación lanzada por la India para adquirir un nuevo avión de combate avanzado.

La delegación del grupo industrial europeo presente la principal muestra aeroespacial del Sudeste de Asia está encabezada por su gerente general, Sr. Aloysious Rauen.

.- Saludos.

[Iris]

Carme Chacón y su homólogo alemán apuestan por invertir cuanto antes en la Trancha 3 del Eurofighter


18/02/2009 - En un encuentro bilateral entre la ministra de Defensa española, Carme Chacón, y su homólogo alemán, Franz Josef Jung, han coincidido en la conveniencia de pasar cuanto antes a la tercera fase del caza Eurofighter, Trancha 3, que permitirá completar el programa.

Durante el análisis de la situación actual de la industria europea de defensa, ambos mandatarios se pronunciaron al respecto, despejando las dudas existentes acerca de la viabilidad de la tercera fase por las reticencias de los países implicados en el proyecto por la gran inversión que supone.

En cuanto al programa del avión de transporte militar A400M, Chacón y Jung consideran que es estratégico y de especial importancia para la industria europea, ya que resulta esencial proporcionar a las Fuerzas Armadas de los países participantes en el mismo, la capacidad que aporta este avión de transporte militar.

Por ello, los ministros de Defensa de España y Alemania consideran necesario una reordenación del programa por parte del consorcio europeo EADS, e introducir las modificaciones técnicas necesarias en el mismo que satisfagan las expectativas de las naciones que lo financian.

Operaciones militares

En otro orden de cosas, ambos ministros han analizado el desarrollo de las operaciones militares en curso en las que participan España y Alemania. En la reunión, celebrada en la sede del Ministerio de Defensa en Madrid, han abordado la situación de la misión ISAF de la OTAN, y han coincidido en la necesidad de una nueva estrategia en Afganistán. En concreto, han destacado la conveniencia de acelerar el proceso para que las autoridades afganas vayan asumiendo progresivamente mayor responsabilidad en la seguridad del país.

En cuanto a la operación Atalanta de la Unión Europea para luchar contra la piratería frente a las costas de Somalia, Chacón y Jung han manifestado su satisfacción por el desarrollo de la misión, que está ofreciendo mayor seguridad a los buques que navegan por las aguas del Golfo de Adén y frente a las costas somalíes. En estos momentos, España participa en la Operación Atalanta con la fragata ‘Victoria' y un avión P-3 Orión de patrulla marítima, y Alemania tiene desplegada en la zona la fragata ‘Karslruhe'.

Sobre esta cuestión, la ministra española y su homólogo alemán han abordado la posibilidad de que la Alianza Atlántica pueda colaborar, en momentos puntuales, con la misión aeronaval de la Unión Europea en el Océano Índico.

.- Saludos.

[Iris]

LA INDIA ESTUDIA LA COMPRA DE SEIS NUEVOS AVIONES AN-74



La compañía ucraniana Antonov ASTC ha elegido Aero India 2009, actualmente realizándose en Bangalore, para revelar su nuevo An-74, un avión de patrulla marítimo multi-role. Esta versión del avión está siendo estudiada ya por el ministerio de la defensa de la India, y una orden por seis aparatos para la marina y el guardacostas está en estudio. El nuevo An-74 es capaz de realizar tareas múltiples, patrulla aérea y marítima, ayuda a las naves militares con la posibilidad para contraatacar a un enemigo, operaciones de búsqueda y rescate, reconocimiento electrónico y de radio, además de la determinación de la contaminación en la superficie del mar. Puede ser configurado de nuevo fácilmente para el transporte de personal y evacuación aero medica (MEDEVAC). Su cabina de carga tiene un volumen de 26 metros cúbicos, una puerta-rampa completamente mecanizada y equipo para carga/descarga aerotransportado así como el lanzamiento de carga. Antonov dice el nuevo An-74, desarrollado con sus socios de Francia, Alemania y Suecia, se puede operar desde pistas no preparadas que tienen piedras, nieve o hielo. En modo STOL (despegue y aterrizaje cortos) puede transportar hasta seis toneladas de carga. Es también simple mantener, y puede operar así por largos períodos lejos de aeródromos regulares. Toma las mejores características de los anteriores aviones de la familia, que están operación en divisiones militares de diversos países en una variedad de misiones. Estos incluyen transporte de tropas y carga que llevan para las misiones especiales, evacuación de muertos, lucha contra la piratería, vigilancia de las fronteras marítimas, etc. El nuevo An-74 ofrece varias mejoras, tales como instrumentos más nuevos para pilotar, navegación y comunicaciones. Además, se han mejorado la central eléctrica y los sistemas de control del APU, del avión y del motor, combustible, sistemas hidráulicos y muchas otras piezas. Las tecnologías más modernas serán utilizadas en ayuda a las ventas del avión. Durante la exposición, Ucrania y la India también discutirán los nuevos sectores existentes de cooperación en la industria aeroespacial.

.- Saludos.