Monday, February 16, 2009
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Saturday, February 14, 2009
Friday, February 13, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
Bangalore: A tyre of an F-16N Super Viper fighter aircraft of the global defence and aerospace major Lockheed Martin burst on landing during the final day of the Aero India 2009 air show at Yelahanka Airbase today."No one was injured," Lockheed Martin said in a statement.
"The tyre was changed within 30 minutes, which is a perfect example of this aircraft's maintainability," the company said.
The statement said the Air Force show safety coordinators were "very impressed with the rapidity with which the tyre was changed".
15/02/09 Press Trust of India
"The tyre was changed within 30 minutes, which is a perfect example of this aircraft's maintainability," the company said.
The statement said the Air Force show safety coordinators were "very impressed with the rapidity with which the tyre was changed".
15/02/09 Press Trust of India
Labels: Defense, F16, Incidents and Accidents, Lockheed Martin, USA
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Bangalore: As the F-16 fighter roars into the skies of Bengaluru at the Aero India 09 show, all attention is on the wonderful aerobatics display it puts up, not on the tiny flag of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on its tail. But the fact is, two of the four F-16s brought here by Lockheed Martin belong to the UAE Air Force.
Two intriguing questions immediately arise: Firstly, were these aircraft flown, perhaps just days ago, by combat pilots from the Pakistani Air Force (PAF), which has long sent its officers on deputation to fly UAE fighters? Would these very aircraft, now here on a sales pitch by Lockheed Martin, have been bombing India in the event of a war with Pakistan?
Senior Indian Air Force (IAF) officers have confirmed to Business Standard that, in any war with India, Pakistan could field up to two squadrons of F-16 aircraft borrowed from Arab nations, where its pilots are posted on deputation.
Air Commodore Jasjit Singh, who won a Vir Chakra in combat in 1971 and went on to head the Institute for Defence Studies and Analysis, points out, “This has happened regularly. In 1965, the Jordanian Air Force supplied F-104 Starfighters to Pakistan, one of which was even shot down by the IAF. In 1971, Turkey and Iran had supplied F-86 Sabres to the PAF. I wouldn’t rule out a repeat of this kind of help.”
Air Marshal Vinod Patney, the top air force field commander during the Kargil conflict, also believes the UAE Air Force F-16s could be used against India.
He reasons, “There are Pakistani pilots there in the UAE: fact. They are flying their F-16s: fact. There is a close military relationship between those countries: fact. I would not rule out Islamic solidarity coming into play in the event of a war with India.”
Clearly visible on the UAE Air Force F-16s on display in Bangalore is an extra fuel tank, just above the wing, specially built for the batch of F-16s ordered by the UAE. The IAF believes UAE asked Lockheed Martin for the extra range to allow the Pakistani pilots in the UAE to reach Indian targets, deliver their weapons, and then fly to a Pakistani base from where they could operate for the rest of the war.
Lockheed Martin told Business Standard that they had no idea whether Pakistani pilots had recently flown the F-16s, now in Bangalore. Douglas Hartwick, CEO of Lockheed Martin India Pvt Ltd explained, “We just leased these planes from the UAE Air Force.”
India’s strategic community is concerned about F-16 aircraft being evaluated by India despite their being in service in Pakistan.
15/02/09 Ajai Shukla/Business Standard
Two intriguing questions immediately arise: Firstly, were these aircraft flown, perhaps just days ago, by combat pilots from the Pakistani Air Force (PAF), which has long sent its officers on deputation to fly UAE fighters? Would these very aircraft, now here on a sales pitch by Lockheed Martin, have been bombing India in the event of a war with Pakistan?
Senior Indian Air Force (IAF) officers have confirmed to Business Standard that, in any war with India, Pakistan could field up to two squadrons of F-16 aircraft borrowed from Arab nations, where its pilots are posted on deputation.
Air Commodore Jasjit Singh, who won a Vir Chakra in combat in 1971 and went on to head the Institute for Defence Studies and Analysis, points out, “This has happened regularly. In 1965, the Jordanian Air Force supplied F-104 Starfighters to Pakistan, one of which was even shot down by the IAF. In 1971, Turkey and Iran had supplied F-86 Sabres to the PAF. I wouldn’t rule out a repeat of this kind of help.”
Air Marshal Vinod Patney, the top air force field commander during the Kargil conflict, also believes the UAE Air Force F-16s could be used against India.
He reasons, “There are Pakistani pilots there in the UAE: fact. They are flying their F-16s: fact. There is a close military relationship between those countries: fact. I would not rule out Islamic solidarity coming into play in the event of a war with India.”
Clearly visible on the UAE Air Force F-16s on display in Bangalore is an extra fuel tank, just above the wing, specially built for the batch of F-16s ordered by the UAE. The IAF believes UAE asked Lockheed Martin for the extra range to allow the Pakistani pilots in the UAE to reach Indian targets, deliver their weapons, and then fly to a Pakistani base from where they could operate for the rest of the war.
Lockheed Martin told Business Standard that they had no idea whether Pakistani pilots had recently flown the F-16s, now in Bangalore. Douglas Hartwick, CEO of Lockheed Martin India Pvt Ltd explained, “We just leased these planes from the UAE Air Force.”
India’s strategic community is concerned about F-16 aircraft being evaluated by India despite their being in service in Pakistan.
15/02/09 Ajai Shukla/Business Standard
Labels: Defense, F16, Lockheed Martin, UAE, USA
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Bangalore: The intense competition for IAF’s $ 10 billion Multi Medium Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) deal is getting intense with celebrities donning the air warrior robes. There are speculations on the guest pilots receiving remuneration from the bidders of the MMRCA.
A guest pilot, however, denied vehemently when confronted with this question on Friday.
India’s first cosmonaut Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma who flew the F/A 18 Super Hornet denied that guest pilots were bought by the bidding companies to fly the aircraft so that it would increase their brand value.
“Neither I nor my foundation have received any money to fly the aircraft,” said Sharma after his hour-long sortie. Sharma denied that there was any such deal and said he took the flight for his love of flying.
The contenders who are bidding for the MMRCA deal are leaving no stone unturned to grab the maximum attention by roping in celebrities from different walks of life.
The Russian MiG-35 roped in Air Marshal (Retd) Harish Masand and the Lockheed Martin F-16 IN Super Viper Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra to fly their respective aircraft in this edition of Aero India.
After strapping on, the 60-year-old former IAF officer saluted to the shutter bugs when asked to wave for the cameras. Sharma who did up to 6-Gs with US Air Force Pilot Daniel ‘Blue’ Hannum on the third day of Aero India 2009 said, “Usually you experience zero gravity, but in this flight it was 6-Gs, and it was more challenging because of my age,” he said.
14/02/09 ExpressBuzz
A guest pilot, however, denied vehemently when confronted with this question on Friday.
India’s first cosmonaut Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma who flew the F/A 18 Super Hornet denied that guest pilots were bought by the bidding companies to fly the aircraft so that it would increase their brand value.
“Neither I nor my foundation have received any money to fly the aircraft,” said Sharma after his hour-long sortie. Sharma denied that there was any such deal and said he took the flight for his love of flying.
The contenders who are bidding for the MMRCA deal are leaving no stone unturned to grab the maximum attention by roping in celebrities from different walks of life.
The Russian MiG-35 roped in Air Marshal (Retd) Harish Masand and the Lockheed Martin F-16 IN Super Viper Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra to fly their respective aircraft in this edition of Aero India.
After strapping on, the 60-year-old former IAF officer saluted to the shutter bugs when asked to wave for the cameras. Sharma who did up to 6-Gs with US Air Force Pilot Daniel ‘Blue’ Hannum on the third day of Aero India 2009 said, “Usually you experience zero gravity, but in this flight it was 6-Gs, and it was more challenging because of my age,” he said.
14/02/09 ExpressBuzz
Labels: Defense, F18, MMRCA, USA
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Bangalore: Congress MP and industrialist Navin Jindal today rode the US fighter plane F-18 during the ongoing air show, the sources said.
Jindal's wife Shaalu Jindal was also present during the air-sortie, She was immaculately dressed in a red dress on the occasion of Valentine's day.
The young industrialist dedicated the air sortie to his wife Shaalu Jindal. Two days back, Jindal had received the required training for the flying.
Earlier, ace shooter and Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra had also taken a flight on F-16 fighter plane during the five-day air show where 25 countries are participating.
14/02/09 Samay Live To read the news in full | PermaLink
Jindal's wife Shaalu Jindal was also present during the air-sortie, She was immaculately dressed in a red dress on the occasion of Valentine's day.
The young industrialist dedicated the air sortie to his wife Shaalu Jindal. Two days back, Jindal had received the required training for the flying.
Earlier, ace shooter and Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra had also taken a flight on F-16 fighter plane during the five-day air show where 25 countries are participating.
14/02/09 Samay Live To read the news in full | PermaLink
Bangalore: Twenty-five years after his tryst with fame, India's only cosmonaut to fly in space, Rakesh Sharma, was in the limelight once again when he flew in Boeing-made FA-18 Super Homet at Asia's premier airshow, the Aero India 2009, here today.
Sharma, who was 35 when he embarked on the space journey in 1984, said, "It was exciting to get back to what I like most -- escaping gravity." Sharma, who retired as wing commander from the Indian Air Force, had a nearly one hour sortie as a part of the programme by Boeing, which had bid for the IAF medium multirole combat aircraft deal.
Dressed in the pilot overhauls, the squadron leader looked completely at ease as he took off in the aircraft with US co-pilot Hanmann.
Sharma, who did some manoeuvres including, some rolls and tumbles and loops, said it still felt good when coming back to earth. Sharma's flight on the Super Hornet comes close on the heels of Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra who flew Lockheed Martin's F-16 yesterday, another contender for the tender.
13/02/09 Press Trust of India
Sharma, who was 35 when he embarked on the space journey in 1984, said, "It was exciting to get back to what I like most -- escaping gravity." Sharma, who retired as wing commander from the Indian Air Force, had a nearly one hour sortie as a part of the programme by Boeing, which had bid for the IAF medium multirole combat aircraft deal.
Dressed in the pilot overhauls, the squadron leader looked completely at ease as he took off in the aircraft with US co-pilot Hanmann.
Sharma, who did some manoeuvres including, some rolls and tumbles and loops, said it still felt good when coming back to earth. Sharma's flight on the Super Hornet comes close on the heels of Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra who flew Lockheed Martin's F-16 yesterday, another contender for the tender.
13/02/09 Press Trust of India
Labels: Boeing, Defense, F18, USA
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American defence major Lockheed Martin (LM) has been putting up its best show at the ongoing air show at the Yelahanka air base, hoping the Indian defence sector will lap up its products.
Among other attention-grabbing engagements were Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra, who flew the F-16N Super Viper advanced fourth generation combat aircraft, one of the star attractions at the air show that concludes this Sunday. Other products from the LM labs include the C-130J Hercules airlifter (where media has been taken for a short plane ride on Thursday and Friday) and air and missile defence systems.
Orville Prins, vice president of business development (India), said the F-16 that sparkled over the Bangalore blue skies is tailored to meet or exceed India's Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) requirements. "The Super Viper is ready for integration into India's infrastructure and operations now," he added, hoping to grab a share of India's mighty $12 billion budget for buying nearly 100-odd fighter aircraft. The LM official said that 24 nations have chosen the F-16 as their front-line multi-role fighter with 52 follow-on buys making it one the most successful multi-role fighter aircraft programmes.
The Americans are happy that the Indian Air Force has selected the C-130J airlifter, with six aircraft to be delivered beginning in 2011. The IAF's new Super Hercules will be the longer fuselage or "stretched" variant of the C-130J just like the ones given to US Air Force. This airlifter can carry in technical terms eight 463L pallets, 97 medical litters, 24 CDS bundles, 128 combat troops and 92 paratroops.
13/02/09 Stephen David/India Today
Among other attention-grabbing engagements were Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra, who flew the F-16N Super Viper advanced fourth generation combat aircraft, one of the star attractions at the air show that concludes this Sunday. Other products from the LM labs include the C-130J Hercules airlifter (where media has been taken for a short plane ride on Thursday and Friday) and air and missile defence systems.
Orville Prins, vice president of business development (India), said the F-16 that sparkled over the Bangalore blue skies is tailored to meet or exceed India's Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) requirements. "The Super Viper is ready for integration into India's infrastructure and operations now," he added, hoping to grab a share of India's mighty $12 billion budget for buying nearly 100-odd fighter aircraft. The LM official said that 24 nations have chosen the F-16 as their front-line multi-role fighter with 52 follow-on buys making it one the most successful multi-role fighter aircraft programmes.
The Americans are happy that the Indian Air Force has selected the C-130J airlifter, with six aircraft to be delivered beginning in 2011. The IAF's new Super Hercules will be the longer fuselage or "stretched" variant of the C-130J just like the ones given to US Air Force. This airlifter can carry in technical terms eight 463L pallets, 97 medical litters, 24 CDS bundles, 128 combat troops and 92 paratroops.
13/02/09 Stephen David/India Today
Labels: Defense, Lockheed Martin, USA
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Bangalore: After touching Olympic heights in Beijing just a few months ago, Abhinav Bindra soared to a new high in a fighter aircraft to join the select list of Indians, including Ratan Tata, who have flown the F-16.
Abhinav touched 20,000 feet in a F-16 IN Super Viper, a fourth-generation fighter from the workshop of American company Lockheed Martin. He was thrilled after an hour-long flight.
The ash-coloured single-engine fighter, which the company got here on lease from the UAE Air Force, rolled off the tarmac at 4.51 pm. In six minutes, it soared above with India's pride on the navigator's seat.
"I've never felt like this before. After Olympics, this was the most exhilarating experience. It was a fantastic feeling,'' said Bindra, who wore a dark-blue flying suit. Piloting Bindra's joyride was Lockheed's test-pilot Paul Randall, who has clocked 4,500 hours of flying time on various F-16 models.
"We went away from the airfield, pulled off a lot of Gs, up to 6.5 Gs. We did some manoeuvres like turns and rolls. And we flew past the clouds at 20,000 feet and almost hit the speed of sound,'' Randall said, giving 10/10 to the gold medalist.
Bindra also had the privilege of manning the flight for a few minutes.
"He made me comfortable. I got extensive briefing ahead of the flight. I attended the medicals in New Delhi on Tuesday and today I was on the simulator for 45 minutes,'' Bindra said.
The Super Viper, called the Ferrari of fighters, can reach 50,000 feet and is capable of flying at speeds just over two machs — twice the speed of sound.
13/02/09 Times of India
Abhinav touched 20,000 feet in a F-16 IN Super Viper, a fourth-generation fighter from the workshop of American company Lockheed Martin. He was thrilled after an hour-long flight.
The ash-coloured single-engine fighter, which the company got here on lease from the UAE Air Force, rolled off the tarmac at 4.51 pm. In six minutes, it soared above with India's pride on the navigator's seat.
"I've never felt like this before. After Olympics, this was the most exhilarating experience. It was a fantastic feeling,'' said Bindra, who wore a dark-blue flying suit. Piloting Bindra's joyride was Lockheed's test-pilot Paul Randall, who has clocked 4,500 hours of flying time on various F-16 models.
"We went away from the airfield, pulled off a lot of Gs, up to 6.5 Gs. We did some manoeuvres like turns and rolls. And we flew past the clouds at 20,000 feet and almost hit the speed of sound,'' Randall said, giving 10/10 to the gold medalist.
Bindra also had the privilege of manning the flight for a few minutes.
"He made me comfortable. I got extensive briefing ahead of the flight. I attended the medicals in New Delhi on Tuesday and today I was on the simulator for 45 minutes,'' Bindra said.
The Super Viper, called the Ferrari of fighters, can reach 50,000 feet and is capable of flying at speeds just over two machs — twice the speed of sound.
13/02/09 Times of India
Labels: Defense, F16, Lockheed Martin, Special Events, USA
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New York: The US-India Business Council (USIBC) launched a historic 4-day Executive Defense Mission to Aero India 2009. The Mission is led by Dr. Vicki Panhuise, Honeywell; General (Ret) Chuck Wald, L-3 Communications; and General (Ret) Bruce Scott, ITT Defense International. Lt Gen (Ret) Jeffrey Kohler, The Boeing Company, and a senior advisor to the USIBC Board of Directors, is a special military advisor to the delegation.
US defense companies under the USIBC banner have participated in nine consecutive Executive Missions to India advocating for robust defense cooperation between the United States and India, including transfer of high-end defense technology.The mission leaders expressed optimism on this 'jumbo' mission, saying military-to-military contacts and joint exercises have steadily increased, paving the way for increased defense trade.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is the host and organizer for Aero India 2009 in Bangalore, February 10-14 and USIBC's partner on the ground.America's top defense companies, including Honeywell, L-3 Communications, ITT, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Bell Helicopter (Textron), Raytheon, Sikorsky, Goodrich, Rockwell Collins, Stonebridge International, The Cohen Group, EP Team and The Fremont Group, among others, participated in Aero India 2009.
The US also demonstrated flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet and C-17 Globemaster-III strategic air lift aircraft by Boeing and the F-16 and C-130J by Lockheed Martin.
12/02/09 Indiapost, USA To read the news in full | PermaLink
US defense companies under the USIBC banner have participated in nine consecutive Executive Missions to India advocating for robust defense cooperation between the United States and India, including transfer of high-end defense technology.The mission leaders expressed optimism on this 'jumbo' mission, saying military-to-military contacts and joint exercises have steadily increased, paving the way for increased defense trade.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is the host and organizer for Aero India 2009 in Bangalore, February 10-14 and USIBC's partner on the ground.America's top defense companies, including Honeywell, L-3 Communications, ITT, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Bell Helicopter (Textron), Raytheon, Sikorsky, Goodrich, Rockwell Collins, Stonebridge International, The Cohen Group, EP Team and The Fremont Group, among others, participated in Aero India 2009.
The US also demonstrated flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet and C-17 Globemaster-III strategic air lift aircraft by Boeing and the F-16 and C-130J by Lockheed Martin.
12/02/09 Indiapost, USA To read the news in full | PermaLink
Boeing is offering the C-17 Globemaster to India, following the country's request for information for strategic lift transport aircraft.
The C-17, which is on flying and static display at the Aero India 2009 show in Bangalore this week, has been in India's radar for some time. Boeing briefed the country's air force in October 2007. However, New Delhi had not been expected to move ahead with the requirement, as it had concluded a deal for six Lockheed Martin C-130Js in early 2008.
"We received the RFI in 2008 and have now responded," says Boeing Military Aircraft president Chris Chadwick. "We expect to engage in further discussions with India and believe that a request for proposals would come out soon."
The C-17 has been ordered by Australia, Canada, the UK, Qatar and a consortium of NATO members, as well as the USAF.
12/02/09 Siva Govindasamy/Flight International
The C-17, which is on flying and static display at the Aero India 2009 show in Bangalore this week, has been in India's radar for some time. Boeing briefed the country's air force in October 2007. However, New Delhi had not been expected to move ahead with the requirement, as it had concluded a deal for six Lockheed Martin C-130Js in early 2008.
"We received the RFI in 2008 and have now responded," says Boeing Military Aircraft president Chris Chadwick. "We expect to engage in further discussions with India and believe that a request for proposals would come out soon."
The C-17 has been ordered by Australia, Canada, the UK, Qatar and a consortium of NATO members, as well as the USAF.
12/02/09 Siva Govindasamy/Flight International
Labels: C-17 Globemaster, Defense, Transport, USA
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Bangalore: Several top U.S. defense companies are taking part in a U.S.-India Business Council delegation at the Aero India 2009 defense conference.
The USIBC is an organization working to strengthen ties between the United States and India on defense technologies. The USIBC executive defense mission to Aero India 2009, taking place in Bangalore through Sunday, marks the ninth year for the growing collaboration between India and U.S. defense companies.
Officials say the executive defense mission is being led by Vicki Panhuise of Honeywell, retired Gen. Chuck Wald from L-3 Communications and retired Gen. Bruce Scott from ITT Defense International, along with retired Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kohler from Boeing.
"The impressive turnout of U.S. companies on this executive mission speaks volumes as to our member companies' commitment to partner with India," Ron Somers, USIBC president, said in a statement.
12/02/09 UPI To read the news in full | PermaLink
The USIBC is an organization working to strengthen ties between the United States and India on defense technologies. The USIBC executive defense mission to Aero India 2009, taking place in Bangalore through Sunday, marks the ninth year for the growing collaboration between India and U.S. defense companies.
Officials say the executive defense mission is being led by Vicki Panhuise of Honeywell, retired Gen. Chuck Wald from L-3 Communications and retired Gen. Bruce Scott from ITT Defense International, along with retired Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kohler from Boeing.
"The impressive turnout of U.S. companies on this executive mission speaks volumes as to our member companies' commitment to partner with India," Ron Somers, USIBC president, said in a statement.
12/02/09 UPI To read the news in full | PermaLink
Olympic gold winner Abhinav Bindra is all set to fly high. Bindra will be flying in an F-16 at the Bangalore air show on Thursday and is quite excited at the prospect.
CNN-IBN: What are your preparations?
Abhinav Binmdra: I had an extensive medical examination on Tuesday, but after that nothing else.
CNN-IBN: Are you nervous? Will you be able to sleep tonight?
Abhinav Binmdra: I'm not nervous. And I generally sleep alright so I hope to have a peaceful night.
CNN-IBN: Have you done anything extreme like taking a ride in F-16?
Abhinav Binmdra: No not really. I did a few things prior to the Olympics. But this is absolutely different and I've never attempted to doa thing like this. It's something new for me, it's a new experience. I'm looking forward to it.
12/02/09 Abhir VP/CNN-IBN
CNN-IBN: What are your preparations?
Abhinav Binmdra: I had an extensive medical examination on Tuesday, but after that nothing else.
CNN-IBN: Are you nervous? Will you be able to sleep tonight?
Abhinav Binmdra: I'm not nervous. And I generally sleep alright so I hope to have a peaceful night.
CNN-IBN: Have you done anything extreme like taking a ride in F-16?
Abhinav Binmdra: No not really. I did a few things prior to the Olympics. But this is absolutely different and I've never attempted to doa thing like this. It's something new for me, it's a new experience. I'm looking forward to it.
12/02/09 Abhir VP/CNN-IBN
Labels: Defense, F16, Special Events, USA
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Waging a dramatic ‘Battle of Manoeuvrability’ in the air, four foreign aircraft competing for the multi-billion dollar Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft lent a decisive business edge to the opening Aero India 2009 flight displays at the Yelahanka air base here on Wednesday.
The seventh edition of the biennial aerospace exposition had just begun.
Designed to impress Defence Minister A K Antony and other key defence officials watching the show, the twists, rolls and breathtaking loops by the F-18 Super Hornet, the F-16, the Russian MiG-35 and Eurofighter Typhoon almost overshadowed the spectacular aerobatics by the Suryakiran and Sarang teams. Clinical business sense laced with entertainment couldn’t have been more potent.
Taking off with a deafening roar, the Eurofighter did an upside-down flypast, returned for a low-speed pass before treating the gathering to a neat vertical climb.
But before the motley crowd of VVIPs and defence officials, media and invitees, could take another breath, the F-18 Super Hornet invaded the sky. In the next few fleeting minutes, the American fighter flew past for an abrupt push upwards at a 1.8 Mk speed.
And then came the MiG-35. With its astounding split-air manoeuvre and 360 degree Hi-G turns, the two-seater was definitely built for some smart moves. The barrel roll and inverted flight with a half roll that followed, and the characteristic Cobra manoeuvre only boosted the MiG-35’s image. Lockheed Martin’s F-16 had something else up its sleeve, performing a nine-G turn at high speed.
Earlier, the IL-78 re-fuelling aircraft made a mark with fuel dispensers attached to two Mirage 2000s in tandem. This flypast was followed by a five-Hawk formation, a five-Jaguar arrow-head formation, and four light combat aircraft in close formation.
12/02/09 Rasheed Kappan/Deccan Herald
The seventh edition of the biennial aerospace exposition had just begun.
Designed to impress Defence Minister A K Antony and other key defence officials watching the show, the twists, rolls and breathtaking loops by the F-18 Super Hornet, the F-16, the Russian MiG-35 and Eurofighter Typhoon almost overshadowed the spectacular aerobatics by the Suryakiran and Sarang teams. Clinical business sense laced with entertainment couldn’t have been more potent.
Taking off with a deafening roar, the Eurofighter did an upside-down flypast, returned for a low-speed pass before treating the gathering to a neat vertical climb.
But before the motley crowd of VVIPs and defence officials, media and invitees, could take another breath, the F-18 Super Hornet invaded the sky. In the next few fleeting minutes, the American fighter flew past for an abrupt push upwards at a 1.8 Mk speed.
And then came the MiG-35. With its astounding split-air manoeuvre and 360 degree Hi-G turns, the two-seater was definitely built for some smart moves. The barrel roll and inverted flight with a half roll that followed, and the characteristic Cobra manoeuvre only boosted the MiG-35’s image. Lockheed Martin’s F-16 had something else up its sleeve, performing a nine-G turn at high speed.
Earlier, the IL-78 re-fuelling aircraft made a mark with fuel dispensers attached to two Mirage 2000s in tandem. This flypast was followed by a five-Hawk formation, a five-Jaguar arrow-head formation, and four light combat aircraft in close formation.
12/02/09 Rasheed Kappan/Deccan Herald
Labels: Defense, Eurofighter Typhoon, Europe, F16, F18, MiG-35, Russia, USA
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Bangalore: As executives in grey suits of global aerospace firms hard-sell their fighters on the ground for the world’s largest fighter tender by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at the Aero India show here, it is their compatriots in G-suits—the pilots flying the machines—who could eventually swing a deal. G-suit is short for gravity suit that protects pilots from the effects of extreme acceleration while flying.
Like Ricardo Traven, the chief test pilot for the F/A-18.
He shoots the twin-engine fighter of Boeing Co. up into the sky, swivelling and making loops and manoeuvres, in an effort that could make or break a multi-billion dollar deal.
“It is kinda like...what I say, the air show will not sell the airplane, but not going to the air show will probably not result in a sale,” says Traven, a former US Navy test pilot with a record of at least 3,500 hours of flying, looking flushed in his G-suit.
“It is nice for pilots who will fly the planes, but for those standing (on the ground)...perhaps, senior military officials, (it is an opportunity for us) to explain what they get in the plane,” he says.
In the tender for the so-called medium multi-role combat aircraft or MMRCA, which is a deal worth at least Rs42,000 crore, six firms—Lockheed Martin Corp., Boeing Co., European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co. (EADS), Saab International, Dassault Aviation and Russia’s MiG Corp.—are aggressively pitching their fighters.
For the pilots, flying a fighter above Bangalore—a city at a mean sea level of nearly 900m—in the pre-summer heat can be tough.
With the higher temperature, a situation that fighter pilots call pressure altitude or an altitude the aircraft reacts and behaves as if it is at 5,000-6,000ft, not 3,000ft, making handling it a stretch for them.
So, the pilots who fly at the show prepare months in advance. First is to identify the type of aircraft that should be flown here, then comes the equipment and the logistics to fly the planes to the city.
At the show in Bangalore, the potential customer IAF’s pilots are given a test ride on the plane. The ride is just an initial exposure but a professional test pilot, especially a fighter pilot, can gather enough information from just one flight to judge the technical capabilities, says Traven.
An IAF test pilot, who has flown in American fighter planes, says that such rides help them to gain insights on systems such as electronic warfare equipment and radars, which normally is not in the brochure.
At the air show, the fighter planes on show are Russia’s MiG-35, Boeing’s F-18, EADS’ Eurofighter and Lockheed’s F-16.
Saab, the Swedish firm that makes the Gripen, and Dassault that manufactures the Rafael fighter, did not bring the planes, saying, they would be brought to India when test trials begin later this summer.
12/02/09 K. Raghu/Livemint
Like Ricardo Traven, the chief test pilot for the F/A-18.
He shoots the twin-engine fighter of Boeing Co. up into the sky, swivelling and making loops and manoeuvres, in an effort that could make or break a multi-billion dollar deal.
“It is kinda like...what I say, the air show will not sell the airplane, but not going to the air show will probably not result in a sale,” says Traven, a former US Navy test pilot with a record of at least 3,500 hours of flying, looking flushed in his G-suit.
“It is nice for pilots who will fly the planes, but for those standing (on the ground)...perhaps, senior military officials, (it is an opportunity for us) to explain what they get in the plane,” he says.
In the tender for the so-called medium multi-role combat aircraft or MMRCA, which is a deal worth at least Rs42,000 crore, six firms—Lockheed Martin Corp., Boeing Co., European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co. (EADS), Saab International, Dassault Aviation and Russia’s MiG Corp.—are aggressively pitching their fighters.
For the pilots, flying a fighter above Bangalore—a city at a mean sea level of nearly 900m—in the pre-summer heat can be tough.
With the higher temperature, a situation that fighter pilots call pressure altitude or an altitude the aircraft reacts and behaves as if it is at 5,000-6,000ft, not 3,000ft, making handling it a stretch for them.
So, the pilots who fly at the show prepare months in advance. First is to identify the type of aircraft that should be flown here, then comes the equipment and the logistics to fly the planes to the city.
At the show in Bangalore, the potential customer IAF’s pilots are given a test ride on the plane. The ride is just an initial exposure but a professional test pilot, especially a fighter pilot, can gather enough information from just one flight to judge the technical capabilities, says Traven.
An IAF test pilot, who has flown in American fighter planes, says that such rides help them to gain insights on systems such as electronic warfare equipment and radars, which normally is not in the brochure.
At the air show, the fighter planes on show are Russia’s MiG-35, Boeing’s F-18, EADS’ Eurofighter and Lockheed’s F-16.
Saab, the Swedish firm that makes the Gripen, and Dassault that manufactures the Rafael fighter, did not bring the planes, saying, they would be brought to India when test trials begin later this summer.
12/02/09 K. Raghu/Livemint
Labels: Aero India 2009 Seminar, Defense, Eurofighter, F16, F18, MiG-21, MiG-35, Russia, USA
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Bangalore: With the government stressing on transparency in defence deals, Defence Minister A K Antony on Wednesday said there would be "no favouritism" while awarding the USD 10 billion 126 fighter aircraft contract.
"I can assure you that we will not show favouritism to anybody. We will not neglect anybody. The procedure will be transparent and decision will ultimately be based on merits and quality and other conditions," Antony told reporters on the sidelines of the Aero India show here.
"No negative approach and no favouritism. All competitors will get a level playing field," he said.
Six global aerospace companies -- American Boeing's F/A-18 and Lockheed Martin's F-16, French D'assault's Rafale, Swede Saab's Gripen, European consortium EADS' Eurofighter Typhoon, and Russian MiG-35 -- are competing for the IAF's contracts for which the tenders were floated in 2007.
The Defence Ministry plans to conduct the flight trials of the competing aircraft in about a year's time.
On the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Antony said the most "exciting" moment for him at the show was the LCA performing different aerobatics.
12/02/09 PTI/Sify
"I can assure you that we will not show favouritism to anybody. We will not neglect anybody. The procedure will be transparent and decision will ultimately be based on merits and quality and other conditions," Antony told reporters on the sidelines of the Aero India show here.
"No negative approach and no favouritism. All competitors will get a level playing field," he said.
Six global aerospace companies -- American Boeing's F/A-18 and Lockheed Martin's F-16, French D'assault's Rafale, Swede Saab's Gripen, European consortium EADS' Eurofighter Typhoon, and Russian MiG-35 -- are competing for the IAF's contracts for which the tenders were floated in 2007.
The Defence Ministry plans to conduct the flight trials of the competing aircraft in about a year's time.
On the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Antony said the most "exciting" moment for him at the show was the LCA performing different aerobatics.
12/02/09 PTI/Sify
Labels: Defense, Eurofighter, Europe, F16, F18, MiG-25, Russia, Typhoon, USA
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Bangalore: Rolls-Royce Group PLC said Wednesday it plans to bid for an Indian government program to replace the engines of its 125-strong fleet of Jaguar combat jets.
"On the Jaguar engine upgrade program, we have offered (the Indian government) a lot of technical details," Martin Fausset, the managing director for defense aerospace at Rolls-Royce, told a news conference at the Aero India show. "We expect the request for proposals soon."
Fausset didn't disclose the estimated value of the potential order or a timeframe.
A senior executive of Honeywell International Inc. (HON), which also plans to bid for the same contract, said Tuesday that India's deal will likely be for 280 engines including spare engines for the twin-engine fighter jet.
Under a prior agreement with Rolls-Royce, India's state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. has been manufacturing the engines for Jaguar since 1981.
11/02/09 Rumman Ahmed/Dow Jones/easy Bourse
"On the Jaguar engine upgrade program, we have offered (the Indian government) a lot of technical details," Martin Fausset, the managing director for defense aerospace at Rolls-Royce, told a news conference at the Aero India show. "We expect the request for proposals soon."
Fausset didn't disclose the estimated value of the potential order or a timeframe.
A senior executive of Honeywell International Inc. (HON), which also plans to bid for the same contract, said Tuesday that India's deal will likely be for 280 engines including spare engines for the twin-engine fighter jet.
Under a prior agreement with Rolls-Royce, India's state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. has been manufacturing the engines for Jaguar since 1981.
11/02/09 Rumman Ahmed/Dow Jones/easy Bourse
Labels: Engines, Jaguar, Rolls-Royce, USA
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Bangalore: The race for the Indian Air Force (IAF) order for 126 combat jets just got hotter with US defence major Lockheed Martin opting to equip its F-16IN Super Viper with electronics giant Raytheon's protection suite, which the company described as the “world's most advanced electronic warfare system”.
The two companies announced the tie-up on the sidelines of the seventh edition of the Aero India international air show that opened here on Wednesday.
The advanced counter measures electronic system (ACES) comprises a radar-scanning receiver, a jammer and a chaff and flare dispenser, as well as a decoy that is towed behind the aircraft.
According to Orville Prins, Lockheed Martin's vice president for business development in India, Raytheon's electronic warfare systems “represent the latest technology and the best value solution for India”.
The F-16 is one of the six aircraft in the fray for the IAF order. The others are the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, the French Rafale, the Swedish Gripen, the Russian MiG-35 and the Eurofighter Typhoon built by a four-nation European conglomerate. The tender was floated in 2007 and the bids were opened last April.
11/02/09 IANS/Sify
The two companies announced the tie-up on the sidelines of the seventh edition of the Aero India international air show that opened here on Wednesday.
The advanced counter measures electronic system (ACES) comprises a radar-scanning receiver, a jammer and a chaff and flare dispenser, as well as a decoy that is towed behind the aircraft.
According to Orville Prins, Lockheed Martin's vice president for business development in India, Raytheon's electronic warfare systems “represent the latest technology and the best value solution for India”.
The F-16 is one of the six aircraft in the fray for the IAF order. The others are the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, the French Rafale, the Swedish Gripen, the Russian MiG-35 and the Eurofighter Typhoon built by a four-nation European conglomerate. The tender was floated in 2007 and the bids were opened last April.
11/02/09 IANS/Sify
Labels: Defense, f16 IN, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, USA
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Bangalore: With India going into overdrive to secure its coastline in the wake of the Mumbai terror attacks, US defence major Raytheon is positioning its airborne standoff radar (ASTOR) as the ideal solution for the country's homeland security.
"This may be something of interest to India. There's a lot of opportunity here," Mike Henchey, Raytheon's Vice President for space and airborne systems, said.
Pointing to the success achieved by the British defence ministry in operating the system, Henchey, who is here for Aero India-2009 that opened today, said he hoped to discuss its benefits with Indian officials during the five-day international air show.
The ASTOR system, Raytheon says, provides a highly effective 24-hour surveillance and target acquisition capability. It delivers wide area, all weather surveillance and reconnaissance imagery in near real time for peacekeeping, war fighting and homeland security needs.
Raytheon, which has had a presence in India for the past 60 years, views India's new policy for procuring military hardware as an opportunity for building long term partnerships that would benefit the country economically and industrially.
"We see the offsets clause as an opportunity for partnerships and we would be very pleased to work with our partners here," Henchey pointed out.
11/02/09 IANS/Sify
"This may be something of interest to India. There's a lot of opportunity here," Mike Henchey, Raytheon's Vice President for space and airborne systems, said.
Pointing to the success achieved by the British defence ministry in operating the system, Henchey, who is here for Aero India-2009 that opened today, said he hoped to discuss its benefits with Indian officials during the five-day international air show.
The ASTOR system, Raytheon says, provides a highly effective 24-hour surveillance and target acquisition capability. It delivers wide area, all weather surveillance and reconnaissance imagery in near real time for peacekeeping, war fighting and homeland security needs.
Raytheon, which has had a presence in India for the past 60 years, views India's new policy for procuring military hardware as an opportunity for building long term partnerships that would benefit the country economically and industrially.
"We see the offsets clause as an opportunity for partnerships and we would be very pleased to work with our partners here," Henchey pointed out.
11/02/09 IANS/Sify
Labels: Defense, India, Radar, Raytheon, USA
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Bangalore : Thirty-year-old Suman Sharma, the first Indian woman who flew as co-pilot on the F-16IN Super Viper, is now ready to get into IAF's deadly SU-30 if she passes tests and the IAF permits it. She has even filed her application.
Suman says her experience on the F-16IN would stand her in good stead for future flights. Interestingly, Suman's F-16 simulator stint at Fortworth Texas and at the Centrifugal chamber for pilots in Bangalore seems to have helped her for the F-16 flight. Suman told TOI: "I did not pass out even once in the centrifugal chamber in Bangalore. Withstanding that gave me confidence to fly on the F-16IN."
Suman, who is writing a personal account of her experience on the F-16, shared some of it: "As I embarked the all-digital glass cockpit of the F-16IN Super Viper on a journey of self-discovery, my thoughts went out to the more than 800 women officers in the Indian Air Force (IAF). These bold women have come a long way from being short service non-combatants since 1992 and can hope for combat flying much like their Pakistani counterparts, four of whom were commissioned into fighter flying in 2006."
The air show, she said, gave her "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to get close with `combat'. "As I stepped in, I was impressed by the newly introduced automated recovery system of the Viper, an edge over the legacy F-16, as it warns, automatically takes off and saves the machine and lives from crashing. But none of this was my concern as I was in the safe hands of Paul `Bear' Randall, my pilot, what with his 4,200 hours of fighter experience!
11/02/09 Times of India
Suman says her experience on the F-16IN would stand her in good stead for future flights. Interestingly, Suman's F-16 simulator stint at Fortworth Texas and at the Centrifugal chamber for pilots in Bangalore seems to have helped her for the F-16 flight. Suman told TOI: "I did not pass out even once in the centrifugal chamber in Bangalore. Withstanding that gave me confidence to fly on the F-16IN."
Suman, who is writing a personal account of her experience on the F-16, shared some of it: "As I embarked the all-digital glass cockpit of the F-16IN Super Viper on a journey of self-discovery, my thoughts went out to the more than 800 women officers in the Indian Air Force (IAF). These bold women have come a long way from being short service non-combatants since 1992 and can hope for combat flying much like their Pakistani counterparts, four of whom were commissioned into fighter flying in 2006."
The air show, she said, gave her "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to get close with `combat'. "As I stepped in, I was impressed by the newly introduced automated recovery system of the Viper, an edge over the legacy F-16, as it warns, automatically takes off and saves the machine and lives from crashing. But none of this was my concern as I was in the safe hands of Paul `Bear' Randall, my pilot, what with his 4,200 hours of fighter experience!
11/02/09 Times of India
Labels: Defense, F16, India, USA
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Bangalore: Despite the global meltdown, Boeing, the world's largest manufacturer of commercial and defence aircraft, today said there is no cancellation in its orders from India and assured to deliver aircraft on schedule to its buyers including Air India, the official national carrier.
"We have zero cancellation from India. We have been working carefully. We sold USD 25 billion worth of aircraft in the last three years. Hundred more are to be delivered in the next five years which is valued at USD 17 bn", Dinesh Keskar, the newly appointed President of Boeing India, who takes over his new responsibilities from March one, told a press conference on the eve of Aero India 2009 event here.
Boeing's major buyers in India, Air India, Spice Jet and Jet Airlines have not made any cancellation, Keskar said. "I don't expect any cancellation. We are gearing up to deliver a big order for 68 aircraft by Air India".
11/02/09 PTI/Economic Times To read the news in full | PermaLink
"We have zero cancellation from India. We have been working carefully. We sold USD 25 billion worth of aircraft in the last three years. Hundred more are to be delivered in the next five years which is valued at USD 17 bn", Dinesh Keskar, the newly appointed President of Boeing India, who takes over his new responsibilities from March one, told a press conference on the eve of Aero India 2009 event here.
Boeing's major buyers in India, Air India, Spice Jet and Jet Airlines have not made any cancellation, Keskar said. "I don't expect any cancellation. We are gearing up to deliver a big order for 68 aircraft by Air India".
11/02/09 PTI/Economic Times To read the news in full | PermaLink
Bangalore: Six major global aerospace companies will slug it out at the Aero India International Show, trying to demonstrate the strike power of their fighter jets in the high-profile pitch for an order worth $10 billion from the Indian Air Force (IAF).
US-based defence companies will dominate the seventh edition of the bi-annual aero show to showcase an array of military and civilian aircraft for static and flying displays.
US defence giants — Boeing and Lockheed Martin — are in the race for the $10-billion fighter-plane contract — medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) — the largest in the world over the past 15 years.
Defence production secretary Pradeep Kumar said the technical evaluation of the six bids was underway and trials would be conducted thereafter.
Other contenders include Eurofighter Typhoon of European Aeronautic Defence and Space (EADS), Gripen of Saab, French Rafale of Dassault and MiG-35 of MiG for the IAF order.
The US pavilion will also sport aerospace giants such Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics and Bell Helicopter which will showcase their products. The focus of the event will be on B2B activity between Indian, foreign vendors and government organisations.
Public sector Hindustan Aeronautics will display its Dhruv choppers, five of which will be exported to Ecuador. But HAL’s intermediate jet trainer will be missing in action due to an accident met by a prototype model.
Other indigenous products such as ‘Tejas’ light combat aircraft, ‘Hawk’ advanced jet trainer manufactured by HAL through licence of BAE Systems and Dhruv would perform at the show.
11/02/09 Economic Times
US-based defence companies will dominate the seventh edition of the bi-annual aero show to showcase an array of military and civilian aircraft for static and flying displays.
US defence giants — Boeing and Lockheed Martin — are in the race for the $10-billion fighter-plane contract — medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) — the largest in the world over the past 15 years.
Defence production secretary Pradeep Kumar said the technical evaluation of the six bids was underway and trials would be conducted thereafter.
Other contenders include Eurofighter Typhoon of European Aeronautic Defence and Space (EADS), Gripen of Saab, French Rafale of Dassault and MiG-35 of MiG for the IAF order.
The US pavilion will also sport aerospace giants such Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics and Bell Helicopter which will showcase their products. The focus of the event will be on B2B activity between Indian, foreign vendors and government organisations.
Public sector Hindustan Aeronautics will display its Dhruv choppers, five of which will be exported to Ecuador. But HAL’s intermediate jet trainer will be missing in action due to an accident met by a prototype model.
Other indigenous products such as ‘Tejas’ light combat aircraft, ‘Hawk’ advanced jet trainer manufactured by HAL through licence of BAE Systems and Dhruv would perform at the show.
11/02/09 Economic Times
Labels: Defense, General: Participants, USA
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Chennai/Bangalore: US aerospace products giant Honeywell International is raising its pitch to re-engine the Indian Air Force’s Jaguar aircraft with its F125IN turbofan engine.
“Improved propulsion and enhanced safety features in the engine can save the IAF more than Rs 7,000 crore in lifecycle costs compared to the other options being considered,” senior company officials claimed in a meeting with reporters before the Aero India 2009 in Bangalore on Tuesday.
Ahead of an RFP to be issued by the IAF before awarding the Jaguar re-engining contract sometime next year, Honeywell officials took pains to reiterate that the F125N was a clear winner against competitor Rolls Royce’s Adour engine.Honeywell demostrated the engine at the HAL campus in Bangalore in November 2007.
The company runs technology centres out of Bangalore, Hyderabad and Madurai with automation and control systems design for the aviation sector carried out of Gurgaon, Pune and Chennai.
11/02/09 Business Standard
“Improved propulsion and enhanced safety features in the engine can save the IAF more than Rs 7,000 crore in lifecycle costs compared to the other options being considered,” senior company officials claimed in a meeting with reporters before the Aero India 2009 in Bangalore on Tuesday.
Ahead of an RFP to be issued by the IAF before awarding the Jaguar re-engining contract sometime next year, Honeywell officials took pains to reiterate that the F125N was a clear winner against competitor Rolls Royce’s Adour engine.Honeywell demostrated the engine at the HAL campus in Bangalore in November 2007.
The company runs technology centres out of Bangalore, Hyderabad and Madurai with automation and control systems design for the aviation sector carried out of Gurgaon, Pune and Chennai.
11/02/09 Business Standard
Labels: Defense, Engines, F125IN, Honeywell, USA
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Bangalore: Riding high on the winds of change in India-U.S. ties since the signing of the civilian nuclear deal, American aerospace prowess will be at full throttle during the Aero India-2009 international air show beginning here on Wednesday.
"The U.S. will be the largest participant at Aero India 2009 in terms of space taken up to showcase an array of military and civilian aircraft for static and flying displays. With a huge contingent, our presence will be larger than at any previous Indian air show," a U.S. consulate official told IANS.
Though the number of U.S. firms participating in the five-day biannual event at 22 is lower than that of other countries, the presence of its aerospace majors such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics and Bell Helicopter with their fleet of fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, hi-tech equipment and products will be a major attraction and show of strength.
"Our participation in a big way highlights the U.S. administration's commitment to increase defence cooperation with India and the importance it places in international defence arena. Besides top military leaders and defence department officials, top officials of aerospace firms will be present at the event," the official said, requesting anonymity.
Owing to security and operational reasons, detailed information on the products and technologies being showcased and marketed by the participating firms have not been made public.
Lockheed's F-16 and Boeing's F/A-18F Super Hornet are in a hot race to win the Indian Air Force (IAF) contract for 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA). Both have flown in a couple of the combat-proven strike fighters for static and aerial demos with a full weapons payload involving breath-taking maneouvres twice a day at the Yelahanka air force station, 20 km from the city.
Vying with F-16 and F-18 in displaying air power will be Eurofighter Typhoon of EADS (European Aeronautic Defence and Space), Gripen of Saab, French Rafale of Dassault and Russian MiG-35 of MiG for the lucrative IAF order, estimated at about Rs 50,000 crore ($10 billion).
09/02/09 IANS/The Hindu
"The U.S. will be the largest participant at Aero India 2009 in terms of space taken up to showcase an array of military and civilian aircraft for static and flying displays. With a huge contingent, our presence will be larger than at any previous Indian air show," a U.S. consulate official told IANS.
Though the number of U.S. firms participating in the five-day biannual event at 22 is lower than that of other countries, the presence of its aerospace majors such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics and Bell Helicopter with their fleet of fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, hi-tech equipment and products will be a major attraction and show of strength.
"Our participation in a big way highlights the U.S. administration's commitment to increase defence cooperation with India and the importance it places in international defence arena. Besides top military leaders and defence department officials, top officials of aerospace firms will be present at the event," the official said, requesting anonymity.
Owing to security and operational reasons, detailed information on the products and technologies being showcased and marketed by the participating firms have not been made public.
Lockheed's F-16 and Boeing's F/A-18F Super Hornet are in a hot race to win the Indian Air Force (IAF) contract for 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA). Both have flown in a couple of the combat-proven strike fighters for static and aerial demos with a full weapons payload involving breath-taking maneouvres twice a day at the Yelahanka air force station, 20 km from the city.
Vying with F-16 and F-18 in displaying air power will be Eurofighter Typhoon of EADS (European Aeronautic Defence and Space), Gripen of Saab, French Rafale of Dassault and Russian MiG-35 of MiG for the lucrative IAF order, estimated at about Rs 50,000 crore ($10 billion).
09/02/09 IANS/The Hindu
Labels: General: Participants, USA
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Lockheed Martin today released its media briefing schedule for AERO INDIA 2009. All Lockheed Martin briefings will take place at the Aero India Media Center (Hall E, Room A) at the show site located at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru.
Friday, February 13
-- 2:00 p.m. -- "Rotary Wing Solutions: MH-60R and K-MAX(R) "
-- Richard Holmberg, Director, Naval Helicopter Programs, Lockheed
Martin Systems Integration - Owego
-- Ron Christenson, Vice President, Maritime Business Development,
Lockheed Martin Systems Integration - Owego
Lockheed Martin Systems Integration - Owego integrates a wide range of advanced avionics and mission systems for rotary wing platforms. Richard Holmberg will brief the media on the MH-60R multi-role helicopter, the U.S. Navy's recently deployed anti-submarine and surface warfare helicopter offered to the Indian Navy. Ron Christenson will discuss applications for the manned/unmanned K-MAX(R) helicopter, a proven "aerial truck'' capable of high-altitude cargo delivery.
-- 2:45 p.m. -- "Proven Systems for Modern Warfare and National Defense"
-- Joe Garland, Vice President, International Business Development,
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control
Joe Garland will discuss the latest news and capabilities of Lockheed Martin's missile defense solutions. In addition, Mr. Garland will brief the media on combat-proven battlefield rockets and missiles such as the precision-strike anti-armor Hellfire II(R) and the DAGR(TM) a guidance kit designed to defeat non-armored and lightly armored targets that also minimizes collateral damage. Mr. Garland will also discuss Lockheed Martin's Sniper(R) Advanced Targeting Pod.
-- 3:25 p.m. F-16IN and C-130J: The Best Choices for India"
-- Orville Prins, Vice President, Business Development--India,
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Orville Prins will discuss the advanced technology F-16IN Super Viper, the ultimate Fourth Generation fighter, tailored exclusively to meet or exceed all of India's Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) requirements. Mr. Prins will also discuss the world's most advanced transport aircraft, the C-130J. The C-130J Hercules has been selected by the Indian Air Force, providing modern and effective airlift support for a wide range of national requirements.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.
09/02/09 PR-USA.net
Friday, February 13
-- 2:00 p.m. -- "Rotary Wing Solutions: MH-60R and K-MAX(R) "
-- Richard Holmberg, Director, Naval Helicopter Programs, Lockheed
Martin Systems Integration - Owego
-- Ron Christenson, Vice President, Maritime Business Development,
Lockheed Martin Systems Integration - Owego
Lockheed Martin Systems Integration - Owego integrates a wide range of advanced avionics and mission systems for rotary wing platforms. Richard Holmberg will brief the media on the MH-60R multi-role helicopter, the U.S. Navy's recently deployed anti-submarine and surface warfare helicopter offered to the Indian Navy. Ron Christenson will discuss applications for the manned/unmanned K-MAX(R) helicopter, a proven "aerial truck'' capable of high-altitude cargo delivery.
-- 2:45 p.m. -- "Proven Systems for Modern Warfare and National Defense"
-- Joe Garland, Vice President, International Business Development,
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control
Joe Garland will discuss the latest news and capabilities of Lockheed Martin's missile defense solutions. In addition, Mr. Garland will brief the media on combat-proven battlefield rockets and missiles such as the precision-strike anti-armor Hellfire II(R) and the DAGR(TM) a guidance kit designed to defeat non-armored and lightly armored targets that also minimizes collateral damage. Mr. Garland will also discuss Lockheed Martin's Sniper(R) Advanced Targeting Pod.
-- 3:25 p.m. F-16IN and C-130J: The Best Choices for India"
-- Orville Prins, Vice President, Business Development--India,
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Orville Prins will discuss the advanced technology F-16IN Super Viper, the ultimate Fourth Generation fighter, tailored exclusively to meet or exceed all of India's Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) requirements. Mr. Prins will also discuss the world's most advanced transport aircraft, the C-130J. The C-130J Hercules has been selected by the Indian Air Force, providing modern and effective airlift support for a wide range of national requirements.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.
09/02/09 PR-USA.net
Labels: Defense, Lockheed Martin, Transport, USA
To read the news in full | PermaLink
