Lockheed Martin’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) programme director Kathryn Hasse confirmed at AUSA Winter, Huntsville, AL/USA, that the company is ready to begin low-rate production of the new vehicle should it be selected by the Department of Defense (DoD) later this year. She said that the decision was expected between July and September with the first deliveries due 300 days after the award.

Work would be carried out at Lockheed Martin’s Camden, Arkansas facility where it also manufactures the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers and Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets.

The JLTV is a joint requirement between the US Army and the US Marine Corps to acquire a replacement vehicle for the Humvee. The total order will be over 55,000 vehicles: 5,500 for the USMC; 600 for the US Navy; and the remainder being taken by the US Army. The first 17,000 vehicles will be delivered during three years of low-rate production followed by five years at full-rate production. Production is expected to last until 2040.

“We have demonstrated our ability to the government to produce these vehicles,” said Hasse. She added that Lockheed Martin/BAE Systems JLTV is the only one of the three contenders to have been in the programme since the technical development phase back in 2006. “We started with a clean sheet of paper - designing the cab first then the power train and suspension around that.”

“We have been very busy over the last six months, concluding the engineering, manufacturing and development phase,” stated Hasse. This period also brought to a conclusion reliability and performance testing, as well as the completion of the limited user test.

Weighing in at around 15,000lbs, the JLTV can be transported by the Army’s CH-47F CHINOOK and the inkling USMC CH-53K, although it is too heavy for the MV-22B OSPREY.

In addition to Lockheed Martin’s JLTV, the other two contenders awaiting the final decision are AM General's Blast Resistant Vehicle-Off road (BRV-O) and Oshkosh's Light Combat Tactical All-Terrain Vehicle (L-ATV).

According to Secretary of the Army John McHugh, the JLTV will be a priority if sequestration continues in FY 2016. In the current President’s FY16 budget request,  $456.9 million is allocated for Army and Marine RDT&E and Procurement funding for the JLTV.

During US Army Aviation’s Mission Solutions Summit (29-31 March 2015), Nashville, TN/USA, Sikorsky-Boeing announced the industry team of selected suppliers that will partner the two OEMs to develop, build and field the SB>1 DEFIANT. This is their version of the Joint Multi Role Technology Demonstrator  that the US Army hopes will blaze a trail for the development of the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) (Medium) requirement which is intended to be fielded during the 2030s.

Sikorsky-Boeing SB>1 DEFIANT, their version of the Joint Multi Role Technology Demonstrator  that the US Army hopes will blaze a trail for the development of the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) (Medium) requirement which is intended to be fielded during the 2030s.

Doug Shidler, Sikorsky programme director and Pat Donnelly, Boeing programme director took turns to announce the team members in seven categories.

Swift Engineering will contribute by designing and manufacturing "a major portion of the rotorcraft’s airframe." Honeywell’s contribution will initially be a current Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS), which will be used up to the end of 2016, leading to a next-generation version for the flight testing phase. Mike Madsen, president, Honeywell Defense and Space, said that this new version, “will bring an innovative modular design, a compact footprint, and advanced diagnostic and prognostic functionality,” to the demonstrator aircraft.

Robertson Fuel Systems/Liquid Measurement Systems (RFS/LMS) will provide the crashworthy fuel system. RFS/LMS is a joint venture organisation which was created in 2012 to develop a fuel system for the DEFIANT technology demonstrator.

Other organisations detailed in the announcement include the LORD Corporation which is responsible for active vibration control systems and tension-torsion rotor head components, while East/West will provide the troop seating.

The full list of Sikorsky-Boeing DEFIANT team members announced at Quad-A are:

• Airframe: Triumph Group, Swift Engineering, PPG Aerospace, Martin-Baker, East/West.
• Avionics: L-3, Raytheon, Garmin, Amrel, Northrop Grumman, Esterline, SCI, AiTech.
• Blades: RCT, Technology Marketing, Hexcel, Galaxy, Models & Tools, Janicki, Smart Tooling, Visioneering.
• Rotors: Taylor Devices, Wyman Gordon, Weber Metals, RTI International, FAG Aerospace, SKF.
• Drive: Triumph.
• Propulsion: RFS/LMS, Pratt & Whitney, Ducommun, Mass Systems, Enviro Systems, Arrowhead, Honeywell, Triumph.
• VMS: Woodward, BAE Systems, United Technologies Aerospace Systems, Esterline-BVR, Avionic Instruments, LMCO, Arwkwin, Honeywell, Meggitt-Oeco, Esterine-Mason, Northrop, Whelen Eng, Anaheim Precision, Eaton, LORD, Parker, Triumph, Safran.

The RAFALE deal that has been stuck in limbo for the last three years ever since the last Indian government decided to buy 126 RAFALE jets as part of the MMRCA programme, has reached new developments: Purchasing of 36 Dassault RAFALE aircraft in flyaway’condition in a government-to-government deal, with India being the first to budge from its stance of focusing primarily on technology transfer as part of the deal. Pegged at U$4.25 billion, the first of the 36 aircraft will be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2017 with various design and pricing issues needed to be worked out in the interim. So the question that begs is why Indian Prime Minister Modi veered away from the Make in India campaign that he has been propagating with great fervour ever since his party came to power?

One of the main reasons is the current combat capabilities of the IAF which are critically deficient in light of China’s and Pakistan’s collaboration on the JF-17 fighter aircraft, in addition to the former set to supply the latter with the J-31 aircraft in the not so distant future. China’s military has grown rapidly over the last few years, with Beijing ramping up its production of fighter aircraft in collaboration with Russia. Further, its deep pockets and a near absence of programme delays brought on by bureaucratic lethargy, have given the country a rather glaring edge over India. This is particularly a matter of grave concern as any conflict with China would primarily hinge on air power, and, going by its current combat capabilities which consists of 34 squadrons (several of which need to be phased out) against a need of 42, India quite simply lags behind.

Secondly, Modi did not have the option of scrapping the whole deal and issuing a fresh bidding process as this would have led to significant penalties that the country just cannot afford especially at a time when it is struggling to come up with the money to fund all capital procurement. Thirdly, the PM can ill afford another failed defence procurement deal at a time when the general public opinion, deeply influenced by many such past examples, is finally enjoying a positive uptick due to a newly found political will. Lastly, this out of the box solution which did away with the usual bureaucratic approval can be viewed as one that will help push other agendas such as civil nuclear cooperation, space agreements and infrastructure development as well. In fact an immediate positive impact was felt with the French President Francois Hollande announcing an investment of $2.1 billion in various Indian sectors just a day after the deal was announced. Therefore, looking at the circumstances, this procurement can be viewed as one that has given the IAF the much needed breathing space while keeping other options open.

These are the possible future courses of action: Su-30MKI (advanced version), Mig-35, and Eurofighter TYPHOON (read article here)

The deal to procure only 36 RAFALE aircraft as opposed to the original 126 can be viewed as a blessing in disguise. It is now likely to free up funds that can partly be used for scaling up production of the TEJAS Light Combat Aircraft and the faster induction of the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) in collaboration with Russia. In order to make the situation clearer, it is important to see what would have happened in case the RAFALE deal had indeed gone through. India would have had a fleet of fourth generation fighters, delivered within the next 8-10 years, a time when fifth generation aircraft are likely to become the norm. So in essence India would have spent over $25 billion on a fleet of aircraft, which would pretty much have been obsolete when made fully operational. If it is technology transfer India is worried about, it can import cutting edge aviation technology from the US or the European countries, which are facing troubled times due to market saturation and the after effects of the financial meltdown. The time is ripe for large defence importers such as India to exercise their financial might and aim to get assembly lines set up in the country, especially with a keen interest being shown by private companies such as Tata Motors, Reliance, Mahindra, and L&T. All in all, the imminent termination of the RAFALE deal sends out the right message to the military, the bureaucracy and foreign companies looking to take advantage of the corruption ingrained in the Indian system for long. The Narendra Modi led government is determined to make a fresh start and root out corruption and lethargy in a country that had gotten too comfortable and complacent.

Following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) announced on 11 July 2014, Saab and Embraer have yesterday signed an agreement that establishes a partnership for joint management of the F-X2 Project for the Brazilian Air Force (FAB).

The partnership agreement is part of Saab’s commitment to deliver industrial co-operation in relation to the F-X2 project. Under this agreement, Embraer will have a leading role in the overall programme performance of the programme. Embraer will also undertake an extensive share of work in the production and delivery of both the single- and two-seat versions of the GRIPEN NG, Brazil’s next-generation fighter jet.

GRIPEN in Brazilian Colours

Embraer will be responsible for extensive work packages in systems development, integration, flight test, final assembly and aircraft deliveries. Embraer will also participate in the coordination of all development and production activities in Brazil. Furthermore, Embraer and Saab will be jointly responsible for the complete development of the two-seat version of the GRIPEN NG.

Beginning in the second half of 2015, a team of Embraer engineers and technicians will be based in Sweden to conduct initial training in the maintenance and development work for the GRIPEN NG. This skill and competence will subsequently be transferred to Brazil.

Embraer and Saab will build an Engineering Centre at Embraer's industrial plant in Gavião Peixoto, in the state of São Paulo, to support operations of the GRIPEN NG fighters with the Brazilian Air Force.

“With this agreement, Embraer and Saab establish a long-term partnership on a strategic project for Brazil and for the Brazilian Air Force,” Jackson Schneider, president and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security explained. “The GRIPEN NG will increase the operational standard of our Air Force, enabling it with the appropriate means to fulfill its primary mission, which is the defense of our territory.”

“Through this partnership we will secure an excellent result for the FAB and we will establish solid ground for success with future business opportunities and customers. Not only do we share experience in the defense and aeronautical markets, but both organisations have a clear dedication to customer satisfaction that validates Gripen as the most capable and modern fighter system on the market,” Lennart Sindahl, Deputy CEO at Saab said.

Aeronautics Commander, Air Force Brigadier General Nivaldo Luiz Rossato commented: “The Brazilian Air Force sees with great enthusiasm this additional incentive to the Brazilian industry, through the companies of the defense sector. This new strategic partnership confirms that we are building a promising future. The defense industry needs to be increasingly strengthened as it is one of the main drivers of scientific and technological development of our country.”

The implementation of the partnership for joint programme management between Saab and Embraer is subject to the F-X2 contracts between Saab and COMAER becoming effective. The contract between Saab and COMAER for GRIPEN NG and the associated Industrial Co-operation contract will come into effect once certain conditions have been fulfilled. These conditions are expected to be fulfilled during the first half of 2015.

Saab announced a partnership with Akaer on 14 April during LAAD 2015. The contract ensures the Swedish company a 15% share in the Brazilian company. During the event, the CEO of Akear, César Augusto T.A. Silva, and the Vice-President for International Partnerships of Saab, Jan Germundsson, celebrated the association between the two companies.

The two companies have been working together for almost six years, and since 2012, Saab has brought the partnership to another level by providing resources to Akaer in the form of convertible loan. Such loan has now become officially a 15% profit share. With the selection of Saab for providing 36 Gripen NG supersonic fighters to Brazil, Akaer is responsible for supporting the Swedish company in the process of technology transfer, which is part of the contract with the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). Akaer is one of the few Brazilian organisations taking part of most Embraer’s airplane projects, as well as projects by international manufacturers such as Boeing, Airbus, Airbus Helicopters, and Saab . By becoming a corporation, the change in capital structure gives the company access to new technologies and foreign markets.

"This partnership will help Akaer move on with the plan of becoming an integrator of first-level structures and systems (1st Tier), fully able to supply to the aerospacial and defense industry anywhere in the world,” explained Augusto.

Technicae (Technicae Projetos e Serviços Automotivos Ltda.), a Brazilian subsidiary of ST Kinetics, debuts at LAAD Defence & Security 2015, showcasing its capabilities to provide smart Upgrade & Reset solutions and meet demands of Brazilian and Latin American militaries as well as  automotive companies for enhanced mobility and firepower.

Technicae continues to build its credentials as an accomplished automotive modernisation and revitalisation provider in Brazil by securing several notable contracts and projects, including its recent contracts for the modernisation of the Brazilian Army’s URUTU 6x6 Armoured Personnel Carrier fleet and command shelters manufacturing and integration. (Photo: STK)

Debuting at the ST Engineering pavilion from 14 to 17 April 2015, Technicae presents its comprehensive range of automotive Upgrade and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services tailored for Brazil and the rest of Latin America.

Technicae continues to build its credentials as an accomplished automotive modernisation and revitalisation provider in Brazil by securing several notable contracts and projects, including its recent contracts for the modernisation of the Brazilian Army’s URUTU 6x6 Armoured Personnel Carrier fleet and command shelters manufacturing and integration.  Technicae has also won a tender by the Brazilian Army for the revitalisation of Mercedes trucks.  In addition, Technicae has signed a distribution agreement with Oshkosh for the revitalisation of fire trucks.

Specifically for the URUTU platform, Technicae offers complete turnkey modernisation solutions for electrical systems, vehicle transmission and drivetrain, navigation systems and  firepower.  Technicae is also capable of modernisation solutions for the 6x6 CASCAVEL, another ageing armoured platform.

In addition, Technicae offers a complete modernisation package for the venerable M113, with complete revitalisation of the platform though enhanced suspension, upgraded driver control station, gun ports, bench seats and the InfiniDrive HMX transmission powerpack upgrade.

Enhancing mobility for aged armoured platforms, Technicae offers high value drivetrain upgrades based on ST Kinetics’ InfiniDrive HMX Inifinitely Variable Transmission for a wide range of heavy duty engine types.

In terms of firepower upgrades, Technicae can modernise aged armoured platforms based on a range of small to large calibre weapon systems.  These include ST Kinetics’ ADDER family of Remote Weapon Stations (RWS), which offer single and dual-weapon configurations like the ADDER 40/762 RWS (40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher with 7.62mm Co-axial Machine Gun).  Larger calibre solutions include the ADDER 30mm RWS and even a vehicle-mounted 120mm automatic mortar solution like ST Kinetics’ 120mm SRAMS (Super Rapid Advanced Mortar System).

 “We are very pleased to have secured several notable contracts from the Brazilian Army and other commercial customers," Roberto PIÑA, Executive Director, Technicae said.  "These contracts have shown Technicae’s expertise and capabilities in modernising and revitalising armoured and automotive platforms for Brazil and the rest of Latin America.”

Established in 2012 in Brasilia, Brazil, Technicae (Technicae Projetos e Serviços Automotivos Ltda.) provides automotive maintenance, repair and overhaul services including automotive platforms revitalisation and modernisation projects, as well as related trade, import and export of parts and accessories for its predominantly military customers.  Technicae is a subsidiary of ST Kinetics (Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd), the land systems and specialty vehicles arm of ST Engineering (Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd). 

At LAAD 2015, Rafael is presenting a Short to Medium Range Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air and surface-to-air missile. Rafael's new i-DERBY is an active radar air-to-air missile that provides fighter aircraft with effective performance in both short ranges and BVR interceptions. The missile enables operational flexibility and multi-shot capability. It can be launched at an enemy aircraft day or night and in all-weather conditions.

i-DERBY missile (Photo: Rafael)

i-DERBY missile incorporates Rafael state-of-the-art seeker that enables excellent performance. i-DERBY has look-down/shoot-down capability, sophisticated fire and forget mode and an advanced ECCM tailored to the customer's operational requirements. i-DERBY 's light weight enables its adaptation to various modern fighter aircraft, including light aircraft, such as F-5 TIGER, MIRAGE and F-16.

Together the i-DERBY Active Radar and Python-5 Imaging Infra-Red air-to-air missiles offer superior capability that ensures outstanding air superiority for the 21st Century.

i-DERBY, complemented with the PYTHON-5 full sphere missile, is used as an interceptor in the SPYDER Short and Medium Range Air Defense Systems. Both SPYDER systems are designed to engage and destroy a wide spectrum of threats, such as fighter aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, UAVs and stand-off weapons.

As a direct response to the times, where constant monitoring of maritime and border regions has taken on much greater importance, especially for Brazil with a long coast and wayless borders at the Amazonas region, DCNS is introducing the I2C (Eye to See) maritime surveillance system, whose purpose is to monitor and detect any suspicious activity. The system is the culmination of four years of research and investment by the group in conjunction with seven European countries.

The I2C provides a continuous image of the maritime situation and has automatic alerts by virtue of parameters previously established with the operational authorities or directly by the operators. Its aim is to detect and identify illegal and suspicious activities in real time using the latest generation sensors and different information sources (AIS, coastal radar, air tactics, civilian agency databases of maritime and port control, amongst others).

The system has information on vessels, such as their ID number, owner, size, ports visited, history of breakdowns and accidents. The I2C itself, was developed over a four year period by DCNS along with several international partner companies. The data acquired in real time by the I2C system is disseminated among several stations installed in Operational Centres in France, where users are trained to detect and monitor suspicious behaviour of vessels. Situations such as drug trafficking, fishing in prohibited or unauthorized areas, illegal migration or even activities linked to pollution can be curbed from analysis of the information collected. The system supports decision making by the operators who have reliable information to assess the threat and therefore, to decide and plan any necessary intervention.

At LAAD, DCNS presents a demonstration of the I2C, with a replica of the scenario presented to operators in the French Operating Centres. The idea is to allow a view of an already developed and installed maritime surveillance system, but which, based on the Brazilian coastline as well as parameters to be set according to customer requirements: surveillance of oil platforms, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, piracy, etc. can be remodelled.

RUAG Defence through its French subsidiary GAVAP in cooperation with DCNS has recently won a contract for the upgrade and maintenance of two Warship Onsight Defense Simulators from the French Navy. The contract was awarded in December 2014 following a competitive bidding process launched by the DGA UMN NAV (French Navy’s Procurement Agency). The two simulators are located in Toulon and Brest.

The project named SIMDAV (Simulateur de Défense à Vue - Warship Onsight Defense Simulator) will be carried out by DCNS and GAVAP as co-contractors, with DCNS as prime contractor. Included in the contract is the overhaul and modernisation of the MILDAV simulator in Toulon and CESART simulator in Brest and a five year maintenance agreement. The SIMDAV will allow the training of a ship’s line of sight defence crews in immersive self-defense and asymmetric combat scenarios. Specifically, the SIMDAV simulators will improve the self-defence crew’s preparedness levels against air and surface threats, as well as their handling of small to medium calibre weapons including non-lethal weapons. In addition, the chain of command’s efficiency and weapon’s operations can be precisely evaluated in a simulated environment of the Force d’Action Navale’s ships (Navy’s Task Force).

GAVAP, a French company specialising in simulation systems and equipment for firing instruction and training has acquired extensive experience in this area from supplying the three main branches of the French Army.  At the end of 2013, RUAG Defence acquired this medium-sized company to complement their live and virtual simulation and training product portfolio. With a strong expertise and know-how in the area of transforming real weapons into simulation weapons, GAVAP’s scope of activities includes developing and producing the weapons and targeting components, as well as audio simulation  in the SIMDAV project. The laser equipped simulators will allow real-time shot feedback and realistic ballistics.

RUAG Defence through its French subsidiary GAVAP in cooperation with DCNS has recently won a contract for the upgrade and maintenance of two Warship Onsight Defense Simulators from the French Navy. The contract was awarded in December 2014 following a competitive bidding process launched by the DGA UMN NAV (French Navy’s Procurement Agency). The two simulators are located in Toulon and Brest.

The project named SIMDAV (Simulateur de Défense à Vue - Warship Onsight Defense Simulator) will be carried out by DCNS and GAVAP as co-contractors, with DCNS as prime contractor. Included in the contract is the overhaul and modernisation of the MILDAV simulator in Toulon and CESART simulator in Brest and a five year maintenance agreement. The SIMDAV will allow the training of a ship’s line of sight defence crews in immersive self-defense and asymmetric combat scenarios. Specifically, the SIMDAV simulators will improve the self-defence crew’s preparedness levels against air and surface threats, as well as their handling of small to medium calibre weapons including non-lethal weapons. In addition, the chain of command’s efficiency and weapon’s operations can be precisely evaluated in a simulated environment of the Force d’Action Navale’s ships (Navy’s Task Force).

GAVAP, a French company specialising in simulation systems and equipment for firing instruction and training has acquired extensive experience in this area from supplying the three main branches of the French Army.  At the end of 2013, RUAG Defence acquired this medium-sized company to complement their live and virtual simulation and training product portfolio. With a strong expertise and know-how in the area of transforming real weapons into simulation weapons, GAVAP’s scope of activities includes developing and producing the weapons and targeting components, as well as audio simulation  in the SIMDAV project. The laser equipped simulators will allow real-time shot feedback and realistic ballistics.


Saab and Brazil signed a contract for Gripen NG. The Brazilian Federal Government (Ministry of Defense through the Aeronautics Command, COMAER) ordered the development and production of 36 GRIPEN NG fighter aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force. The total order value is approximately SEK 39.3 billion. Saab and COMAER have also signed an Industrial Co-operation contract to deliver substantial technology transfer from Saab to Brazilian industry. That all is well known. At LAAD Saab gave an update on the topic.
Saab called the GRIPEN NG a game changer for Brazil and Saab and the only real “news” at LAAD. In the near future up to 300 (100-150 at one time) Brazilian employees are coming to Saab in Sweden to prepare the technology transfer. That will be a process of two to three years. Their job after returning to Brazil is to implement the technology at Embraer, other partners and the Brazil Air Force.
Worldwide Saab says that at least 300 to 450 fighter aircraft have to be replaced in the next 20 years, Saab would like to get 10-15% of that market share. In Brazil there is a long list of partners: Embraer, AEL, Akaer, DCTA, Atech, Inbra, Mectron and more to come when the GRIPEN supply chain is building up.
Thanks to the technology transfer Brazil is expecting that a lot of GRIPEN parts will come from out of a Brazil designing board. Embraer will also offer the GRIPEN to the rest of Latin America, African and other countries. Saab and Embraer are expecting to have the export treatment and its conditions ready in the second quarter. There are several business models under consideration.
One of the main “rumors” at LAAD are the GRIPE talks for Argentina and the question would there be restrictions at these Argentinean model, to counter UK fears?


Brazil recently bought four submarines in France, but it is still a big topic at LAAD 2015. In final 15+ submarines are expected and so everybody hopes to have the chance to get the second or third batch. So Sweden, Germany and even Russia are presenting their capabilities and solutions for Brazil.
ROSOBORONEXPORT is presenting their wide range of capabilities and products from helicopters (Russian Helisopters) Mi-171A2 or KA-52, tanks, ships and more. Shown are also civil projects like “safe city” or “smart city”.
ROSOBORONEXPORT is looking forward to finalize a contract for the PANTSIR-S1 air defence missile and gun system. Brazil is planning to use it during the coming Olympic Games. But then the contract must be signed quite fast. Russia used these systems during the games in Sochi. There is also interests in others countries like South Africa and more. The system is based on a 8x8 lorry and capture targets up to 1000 m/s. The missile (8-12 SAMs) can engage targets with a range of 1,200 to 20,000 m and an altitude of 15 to 15,000 m. The gun (30 mm; rate of fire 4,500-5,000 rpm) offers a range of 200 to 4,000 m and an altitude of 0 up to 3,000 m. It can fire on the move, has a reaction time of 4-6 s and a crew of 3 men. Simultaneously four targets can be engaged.
One of the biggest “rumors” at LAAD is that Sweden will by Embraer KC-390. So in contrary Brazil would buy more GRIPEN NG.


Camero-Tech Ltd., a world leader and pioneer in the development, manufacturing and marketing of radar-based Sense Through-Wall systems, wins an order to supply its XAVER 400 and XAVER 100 Through-Wall Imaging Systems to the Navy of a large South American country. Hundreds of these systems have been sold to date to more than 30 countries, making it the most popular systems in the field.


The XAVER 400 is a compact, lightweight and durable personal device optimized for the speed of tactical urban operations for both military and law enforcement users. It delivers critical real-time information on the number of people and their location behind walls. It enables simultaneous detection of both static and living objects. It also provides information regarding room dimensions and major infrastructure elements.
In addition to the XAVER 400, the Company is also exhibiting the following systems at LAAD 2015:
XAVER 100 is an ultra-portable, handheld presence-of-life detector providing military, law enforcement, and search & rescue personnel with critical information in real time about the presence of life and its distance behind a wall – enabling better tactical decision-making in various urban operational scenarios.
XAVER Net is the latest wireless portable command and control communication platform – designed specifically to support the deployment of the XAVER 100 and XAVER 400 systems. The solution includes a new ruggedized PDA that quickly connects with and supports the viewing and control of multiple XAVER systems via an intuitive interface. This capability adds unprecedented real-time intelligence information for decision-makers by providing through-wall detection and imaging information from multiple XAVER systems at a remote distance.
XAVER 800 is a portable, high-performance imaging system, providing a true real-time 3D image of objects behind walls. The system enables quick location of people hidden by walls and barriers, and tracking of their movement patterns and orientation. It enables simultaneous detection of both static and living objects – as well as information about room dimensions and major infrastructure elements.
According to Amir Beeri, CEO, "We are pleased to announce an important win to supply our XAVER™ 400 and XAVER™ 100 systems to a large customer in South America. This order follows many orders previously placed in over 30 countries around the world, totaling hundreds of systems supplied and being used by armies, police forces, and special forces in their daily activities."
He continued, "We see a growing recognition by army infantry units around the world regarding the importance of sense-through-the-wall solutions in their routine activities in built-up urban areas. The use of these types of systems can contribute significantly to mission success and to saving soldiers' lives. We believe that this recognition will soon translate into orders by armies for their infantry forces."

ImageSat International N.V. is the owner and operator of the EROS A and EROS B very high resolution imaging satellites – will reveal the 70 cm resolution EROS B satellite portable end-to-end ground Mini-Terminal (MiniTer) for real time ultra-fast downloading of data from Earth observation satellites at LAAD 2015.


The EROS B MiniTer solution allows direct downloads from the satellite to any location. It combines a 1.5m or 2.4m X-band antenna system designed by ORBIT Communication Systems with a processing unit developed by ImageSat. Specially designed to meet the needs of EROS B customers, this compact, rugged, portable solution can be installed in any environment or weather condition, enabling rapid deployment for any earth observation application.
According to Mr. Rani Hellerman, Vice President for Business Development, "We are pleased to expose our portable ground system at LAAD 2015 – the first of its kind in the world, allowing deployment in one hour. The system enables our customers to receive accurate, high quality data in real time – delivering images of large areas in the shortest possible time, from the battlefield or the location of an event. Currently beginning the marketing of the system, we are very happy with the feedback we have received from potential customers, and expect the first orders to be placed in the near future."
The lightweight MiniTer receives X-band signals when the EROS-B satellite passes within a 2000-km radius footprint of the MiniTer’s location. Features include X-band signal demodulation, image reconstruction, image display during signal reception (quick look) and image archiving.

DSM Dyneema is bringing its Force Multiplier Technology for life protection to the defense and law enforcement communities in Latin America, and is presenting it for the first time at LAAD. The Force Multiplier Technology combines breakthroughs in polymer science, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) fiber technology and unique uni-directional engineering to deliver up to 25% higher ballistic protection while reducing weight by up to 30%. The exceptional capabilities of this technology already are being leveraged by leading manufacturers in Europe and the United States to create next-generation personal protection and vehicle armor designs.
“Leading armor manufacturers are rapidly adopting Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology to take advantage of its compelling benefits, including its light weight, thin profile and extreme ballistic protection,” said Carlos Leao Leutewiler, sales director South America, DSM Dyneema. “We are confident that Latin American manufacturers will also find great success using our technology as the foundation for new products. By eliminating the need to choose between higher protection and lower weight, Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology can empower Latin America’s life protection industry to address new requirements and new threats.”


The world’s top armor manufacturers are using Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology in vests, inserts, helmets and extremity protection, and in hard armor for helicopters, patrol boats and land vehicles. For example, the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and New York Police Department (NYPD) recently selected the Alpha Elite body armor system (by Point Blank), which is based on Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology. The selection criteria included evaluations of performance, weight, flexibility and comfort, to deliver high-performance protection in the lightest weight vests currently on the market.  Point Blank also designed the advanced ballistics package incorporated in the Generation II Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) using Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology. The SPCS, the lightest soft armor system ever to be fielded by the U.S. Army, maximizes mobility and provides superior protection.
Leading Technology Composites (LTC), based in Wichita, Kanada, applied its XPS2 system of advanced processing to Dyneema® Force Multiplier Technology materials to achieve unprecedented levels of performance in ballistic armor systems, at significantly lower areal densities. The company has provided customers with weight savings of 25-45 percent in vehicle platforms vs. legacy systems, and weight reductions of 10-20% for personal protection products such as body armor inserts, vs. traditional options.
And Rheinmetall Ballistic Protection GmbH has developed and certified multiple armor systems with Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology. These include very light weight protective inserts designed to stop 7.62 x 39mm AK47 (MSC) and 7.62 x 51 mm NATO (Ball). These panels currently are being used by various elite European Law Enforcement units. Rheinmetall also has utilized Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology in development of several naval armor systems.
Compared to body armor made from traditional materials such as aramid, protective vests engineered with Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology can reduce weight by up to 30%, while enhancing comfort and agility with fewer layers of material and increased flexibility. Anti-ballistic benefits include outstanding multiple hit performance and superior protection against angle and edge shots, as well as fragments from improvised explosive devices.
Only some Special Operations Forces (SOF) in Latin America are so fare using that advantage. Most of the troops are using material with a weight of 6 kg and more per square meter, with the Force Multiplier Technology this can come down to under 4.5 kf per square meter. And the Latin American market for protection vest is huge and growing. It is expected that in the coming weeks there will be tenders in Columbia (25,000) and Mexico (30,000). The final procurement in Mexico could raise up to 85,000 vests per year! Brazil could need 100,000 for the Armed Forces and 500,000 for the law enforcement sector or Columbia 200,000 for the forces and 88,000 for the law enforcement personnel. So fare DSM Dyneema had a market share of 82% in the law enforcement sector in Latin America.


Airbus Helicopters' H145 makes its Brazilian debut in month-long demonstration tour
The H145 arrived at the end of march in Brazil for a customer tour to demonstrate the capabilities of this enhanced Airbus Helicopters rotorcraft in land-based and offshore service. During visits to the cities of São Paulo, Curitiba, Brasília, Belo Horizonte and Rio de Janeiro, the H145 will be presented to civilian and offshore operators, along with governmental and military agencies. The H145 - previously known as the EC145 T2 - has been upgraded to improve performance in hot and high conditions, augment its flight characteristics, provide lower noise levels, reduce pilot workload and further enhance operational safety. Features include the incorporation of Airbus Helicopters' signature Fenestron shrouded tail rotor, application of the company-developed Helionix™ avionics suite, and the use of new Turbomeca Arriel 2 E engines with dual-channel FADEC digital controls.
"By combining the EC145 family's proven performance with Airbus Helicopters' continued focus on product development, the H145 is a powerful, comfortable, modern and versatile multi-purpose rotorcraft already coming with a large range of optional to perform a broad mission spectrum", explained Mesrob Karalekian, Airbus Helicopters' Vice-President - Head of Latin America region. "We expect the H145 to have the same success in Brazil as it has already seen in other countries. Thanks to its performance, this rotorcraft is able to meet customers' operational needs in this region's demanding high temperature environment".
Designed for superior performance, the H145 provides unrivalled CAT A and PC1 capabilities at maximum take-off weight. Its compact overall size and spacious cabin are also key assets in the offshore market - for which it offers increased capacity and power. These advantages also are delivered in the military version, renamed the H145M - resulting in the very latest high-technology lightweight twin-engine helicopter on the defense market.
The H145's large sliding side doors and rear clamshell doors ensure quick and easy loading and unloading of patients and cargo, making it one of the most suitable of all helicopters for emergency medical services, police missions, search and rescue, among other duties. With its night vision goggle compatibility, the H145 is also fully equipped to perform missions after dark. Designed with the goals of customer satisfaction and increased availability in mind, the H145 enables operators to carry out ongoing maintenance and repair work without the need for lengthy inspections and service downtime. "With 13 EC145-family helicopters in service with civil and governmental operators in Brazil, Helibras, fully supported by Airbus Helicopters, has the necessary means to answer our customer's requests for logistics and maintenance support," added François Arnaud, Helibras vice-president Sales and Marketing. "We will also offer specific training for pilots and engineers, complete with theory, practical components and simulator training." Since the H145's first delivery in July 2014 to the German DRF Luftrettung air rescue organization, approximately 20 aircraft have been received by customers worldwide. To date, Airbus Helicopters has booked orders and options for some 140 H145s, along with 15 in the military H145M variant for the German Army and five H145Ms for the Royal Thai Navy.
At LAAD Airbus is presenting its whole range of air vehicles from UAVs and helicopters to fixed wing aircrafts.


Kudelski Security, an independent, trusted Swiss cyber security provider, consolidates its presence in Latin America by offering its innovative cyber security solutions tailored to the defense and public sectors.
Kudelski Security, the cyber security unit of the Kudelski Group, has a proven track record in helping customers worldwide to protect their critical assets against highly sophisticated cyberattacks. Leveraging over 10 years’ presence of the Swiss Group in Brazil, Kudelski Security will provide cutting-edge cyber security solutions dedicated to the public and defense sectors in Latin America. The company has teamed up here in Brazil with a local partner that has expertise in cryptographic engineering.
In our hyper-connected world, the threat landscape is increasingly complex and globalized. Attacks are becoming more sophisticated and targeted causing material financial loss to the victims. Failure to take a strategic approach to cyber security may put core business at risk.
“It is more and more challenging for companies to get access to highly skilled security experts and to maintain the appropriate technologies to face an evolving cyber-threat landscape with confidence” said Thierry Martin, Kudelski Security’s Executive Director and Vice President for Latin America. “We provide our customers with a holistic vision of cyber security and design tailor-made security products, services, and solutions, allowing them to optimize their security investment and focus on their core activities,” he added.
As a Swiss company, Kudelski Security’s hallmark is historical neutrality, which positions the company as a trusted and strategic partner for any governments or defense forces. The LAAD Defense and Security tradeshow, which takes place in April in Rio, is a perfect opportunity for Kudelski Security to showcase its solutions dedicated to defense and public sectors.
At this event, the Swiss company will demonstrate its expertise in the fields of secure 4G-LTE communication, secure data sharing, as well as introduce the Cyber Defense Center, a customized solution that enables to achieve real-time cyber threat situational awareness and strengthen risk posture with big data analytics and advanced threat intelligence.
Swiss experts will be available on-site for demonstration and presentation of Kudelski Security’s cutting-edge solutions


IACIT's Over the Horizon (OTH) radar project broke ground this month at a coastal site in the South of Brazil.  Backed up by transfer of technological knowhow from IAI-ELTA, the project is being conducted with the support of the Brazilian Nav
After receiving the necessary clearance from local authorities, IACIT began the installation and assembly of the first Brazilian OTH. The radar system is developed with the support of the Brazilian Federal Funding Authority for Studies and Projects (FINEP) and with the technological cooperation of IAI’s ELTA Group.
The innovative surface-wave radar design, operating in the High-Frequency (HF) band, is capable of Over the Horizon surveillance for hundreds of miles at sea. The radar employs phased array technology and unique interference cancellation techniques which provide reliable and persistent coverage of the broader maritime area at all times, regardless of atmospheric conditions or sea state.
This OTH radar application focuses on the Blue Amazon Managing System (SisGAAz) and differs from conventional line of sight radars in that it uses the electromagnetic wave propagation phenomena.
These advanced maritime surveillance features are combined with IACIT's oceanic environmental HF capacities. IACIT has been developing an HF Radar solution since 2010 for oceanic environmental weather and sea surface surveillance, as well as pollution control and to assist prediction of environmental hazards such as storms and tsunamis.
IAI has demonstrated a continuously growing involvement in the Brazilian defense market, as evidenced by the teaming agreement for investment and cooperation signed by ELTA in 2013 with electronic company IACIT.
"We view this project as an important milestone towards persistent, affordable, reliable and efficient coverage of a broad Brazilian maritime area", said Mr. Nisim Hadas, IAI Executive VP & ELTA president.  "We are excited to share our experience with our local partners in favor of Brazil's unique defense needs.”
“The technological development process requires time and considerable financial resources, depending on the complexity of the project. The expected assimilation of technology, including by the National Defense Strategic (END), provides a significant leap for technologies already tested outside Brazil with validated solutions. In the case of a Strategic Defense Company (EED) such as IACIT, transfer of technology and know-how are mandatory to ensure continuous production in Brazil. said IACIT president Luiz Teixeira. “The OTH development has propelled IACIT’s capabilities years forward and will provide a strategic advantage for the Brazilian Navy as well as important lifesaving information for environmental control agencies".


Merkavim is a world leader in the production of armored buses, cost-effective city buses, inter-city buses, and coaches – will reveal the next generation of its MARS Defender, the world's best protected armored bus, at LAAD 2015. Protected from up to 7.62 AP bullets, grenades, and IEDs, the bus looks like a standard bus, with a luxurious interior, while providing safe transport for its passengers.
The MARS Defender is built on a Volvo 6X2 chassis and equipped with two rear axles, enabling it to carry its own weight plus 53 passengers and a driver. Meeting the most stringent standard of MIL STD 461000 High Harness Steel (HHS), the bus provides protection against shooting and bomb assaults, and is considered the ultimate passenger transport solution for dangerous locations.
The body of the bus is built of stainless steel, with armor covering the entire envelope – sides, front, roof, and floor. Two quickly and easily opened emergency hatches are installed in the roof and one on the rear wall of the bus – providing an escape option for passengers. All eight wheels are fitted with Runflate™ systems – allowing the bus to travel, when necessary, even with punctured tires. The bus can be fitted as a luxury or VIP coach, or as an armor-protected mobile command post with communications and C2 fitted interior.
According to Mr. Micha Maixner, CEO, "We are pleased to launch the next generation of the MARS Defender Armored bus at LAAD 2015. Previous generations of the bus were very successful; hundreds of units were sold and have carried passengers in dangerous areas in Israel and other countries around the world, often saving lives. The Defender's functional design and production are carried out in accordance with the stringent requirements of the Israeli security authorities and with their full cooperation."

Evolution to Frigate and a New Patrol Boat

The most important US Navy-sponsored briefing at this year’s Navy League Exposition was the presentation by Captain Dan Brintzinghoffer, the director of the newly established Frigate Office (PMS 515). The programme official waded into the murky, but increasingly clearing waters of his service’s plans to continue building ships in the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) programme of record beyond LCS-32.

By way of a brief, but necessary, historical discussion, MT’s readers may recall that in early 2014 then US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel directed the Navy to reassess its Small Surface Combatant (SSC) programme against persistent questions about the survivability and other attributes of LCSs. The direction also prohibited Navy from building ships beyond LCS-32.

In December 2014, Hagel agreed to continue the SSC programme with the very important caveat that the service address future survivability and lethality requirements in LCSs 1-32 and more important, in the remaining 20 ships of the class.

The Navy is on course to build “frigate-like” capabilities in the remaining 20 hulls of the programme and backfit new systems, when feasible, on LCSs 1-32.

As with any military bureaucracy establishing a new program, the Navy opened a new office (Frigate Office (PMS 515)) under the direction of a Navy captain. The senior officer is leading the remaining LCSs (33-52) on a path to frigate designation.              

During his 15 April briefing to an overflowing group of delegates, Brintzinghoffer noted his office is quickly working to finalise requirements for the programme. This will be no small task as the documents will need to traverse the normal Pentagon acquisition process – gaining approval at the Joint Requirements Oversight Council and in other headquarter organizations.

The Navy Captain was very complementary about the work to date of the two LCS teams, led by Lockheed Martin and Austal USA.  “They have forced innovation and the completion has helped drive down the cost of each ship,” he recalled. And he added the new frigate programme will take advantage of the “hot” production line with the intention to also maintain the current levels of LCS competition in a new frigate programme.

The Navy’s newest programme manager also asked, and responded to what will be a $(US) billion dollar question: What is a frigate?

For starters, the new 20-ship class will be multi-mission capable, compared to the single mission focus of the LCS, which will be reconfigurable and more capable by way of adding mission packages for anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare and mine warfare.

The frigate programme will selectively take best-of-breed capabilities from the current mission packages and LCS hull systems – the torpedo defense system and multi-function towed array for instance – and permanently install them on the new class of ships.

The new frigates will also have enhanced anti-surface warfare weapons: a medium (25mm or 30mm) calibre gun system and an over-the-horizon surface-to-surface missile. “We’re going to be looking around the world for the best systems. And the intent is to take existing weapon and other systems which are at high levels of technology maturity, which will take small amounts of effort to use – we’re not interested in lengthy R&D programmes,” Brintzinghoffer emphasized.

While the new frigates will have improved onboard weapon lethality and other survivability attributes, there will also be the possibility of using LCS-like mission packages’ subsystems. One such equipment solution may be the LCS ASW mission package’s variable depth sonar.          

As for the timeline of the LCS program, the construction of the first 32 LCSs will continue through fiscal year 2018. Metal will be bent for the first frigate in fiscal year 2019.          

“This gives us 18-20 months to pick the design,” Brintzinghoffer remarked.

And during this time, the Navy will also develop a strategy on backfitting the first 32 LCSs to enhance their lethality and survivability during maintenance periods.

The US Navy has also taken delivery of its first two MKVI Patrol Boats (PBs). The lead PB of the class was present at this conference. The author, accompanied by Navy Commander Peter Berning, the  Branch Head (N83) for Coastal Riverine and NEIC Warfare Requirements at Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, had an opportunity to gain a first-hand look at the Navy’s latest addition to its littoral warfare force.

The sea service has eight more of the 85ft craft on contract. The new class of patrol boats is being built at SAFE Boats International in Tacoma, Washington.

The MK VIs can reach speeds in excess of 35kn  and have a range in excess of 600 nautical miles. The propulsion system consists of two MTU diesel engines and Hamiltonjet waterjets.

The PB’s main armament is BAE Systems Platforms & Services’ MK38 Mod 2 25mm gun system. The gun is equipped with Orbital ATK’s BUSHMASTER barrel and has a magazine capacity of 168 rounds. The gun can be operated from its current forward position or aft, taking advantage of common deck rings/fittings.

Of particular interest is the configuration of the rear (aft) part of the boat, with its sloped fantail, permitting the ease of loading and offloading vehicles and other loads. “From this area we’ll be able to support unmanned vehicle operations – unmanned air vehicles (UAV), unmanned underwater vehicles and even unmanned surface vessels,” the navy commander remarked. Indeed, during the ship visit UAV equipment was on display. Each PB is being equipped with an AeroVironment PUMA AE (All Environment) package consisting of three air vehicles and a control station.

Unmanned Systems 

The Navy also took a bold step forward to help bring unmanned systems into future service missions.  At the exposition, Navy Secretary Ray Mabus announced that he is reorganising his department to put more emphasis on unmanned systems, from aerial drones to robotic mini-subs.

“I’m going to appoint a new Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Unmanned Systems,” Mabus said. On the uniformed side, the Chief of Naval Operations’ staff will create a new directorate (N-99). Together, he said, these two organizations will “coordinate and champion…. all aspects of unmanned – in all domains – over, on and under the sea and coming from the sea to operate on land.”

The Navy continues to move forward with its MQ-4 TRITON high altitude unmanned air system. The UAS, a variant of Northrop Grumman’s RQ-4B GLBAL HAWK, is slated for its first operational test this summer.

The Navy’s programme of record is for 68 TRITONs, with three requested in the Obama administration’s fiscal year 2016 budget.
        

Thales has nearly 50 years of experience in the region of South America and almost 650 employs across Latin America. At the show, Thales is showcasing its air mission system capabilities, as well as its know-how in secure communications, secure identification, optronics, and its training solutions for airborne platforms. With its positioning in Advanced Air Defence, Thales is one of the only groups in Europe able to offer the entire integrated capability from air defence radars and C2 through to effectors and their respective fire control systems.

ThalesRaytheonSystems (TRS), the joint-venture between Raytheon and Thales presents the GROUND MASTER 400, air defence radar model. The group is also one of the pioneers in civil and military airspace interoperability, as evidenced by Marshall and One Sky, two landmark civil/military interoperability contracts signed over the past six months. This year, at the stand, the Group demonstrates how combining radar and non-radar technology offers optimised surveillance solutions. With 150 radars, 250 navaids and 27 TopSky-ATM solutions monitoring 50% of Latin America’s airspace, Thales is one of the most trusted providers of operational surveillance in the region.

Thales capabilities include system of systems, protected mobility (vehicle and soldier systems), secure and interoperable information and communications systems. LAAD is the perfect place to illustrate this, showing training solutions for land forces, radio-products covering the spectrum from from HF to SATCOM and draw on solid expertise in secure mobile radio, datalink technology, identification. Thales is also exhibiting its comprehensive range of optronics equipment dedicated for vehicle or soldier protection.

As a first rate partner to over 50 navies worldwide, Thales is exhibiting its latest innovations and its wide expertise in the naval domain such as: Electronic warfare with the latest generation of Electronic Support Measures, surveillance, identification, communications, command and combat systems, support for weapons systems, as well as acoustic systems for anti-submarine warfare and anti-mine warfare for all types of platforms.

Thales Alenia Space highlighst its know-how for dual use applications. Thales Alenia Space has an impressive track record in cooperating around the world, both with industry and government including in setting up ambitious technology transfer programs. In addition, the company presents new products in the field of high resolution optic and radar Earth observation totally adapted to match the market change needs.

"IAI Sees Brazil as a Strategic Partner,” said Joseph Weiss, Israel Aerospace Industries' (IAI) President & CEO, at LAAD 2015. With many current activities in Brazil, and a range of ongoing projects throughout Latin America, IAI offers a wide spectrum of solutions, some of them through two local strategic defense companies, IACIT and Avionics.


Weiss said “IAI sees South America in general and Brazil in particular, as a 'growth engine', and offers a large spectrum of products, backed by wide technological knowhow and matchless operational experience. Through working in Brazil extensively for the last few years, we have been exposed to the country's unique needs and requirements. IAI plans to expand its activities in Brazil by means of cooperation with local companies,"

One example for the cooperation is with Avionics, which progresses towards production of a unique, Brazilian-made Medium Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) UAV – the CAÇADOR, which is based on IAI’s renowned HERON UAV. HERON is used by the Brazilian Federal Police since 2010. The Federal Police have accumulated a substantial amount of operational experience with the HERON UAS which allows it to operate the system in a variety of complex scenarios.


The CAÇADOR UAV is designed to meet the specific, unique and advanced requirements of Brazil with its special strategic interests. The manufacturing process will take place in Brazil by the local industry. Avionics Services has started the process of production, maintenance and operation for the manufacturing of the CAÇADOR. Transfer of technology is made by IAI to Avionics to ensure a successful, professional and highly advanced process. During LAAD at Tuesday 14th, the first CAÇADOR ever built in Brazil left the factory and had a inauguration ceremony.

Visitors to IAI's booth will be introduced to the broad range of technologies, products and services provided by IAI, including UAVs, electro-optical sensors, radars designed for operation under extreme conditions, precision guided weapons systems and more. Also, for the first time, IAI will present an impressive interactive 3D demonstration of its integrated maritime solutions. The presentation will demonstrate a dynamic saturated environment that includes many threats which affect defense and security forces- navies, coast guards, police and more. IAI's solutions scale from localized missions like critical asset protection such as oil rigs and ports, to securing strategic maritime areas such as Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and open sea warfare using massive defense suites and early warning capabilities.

At LAAD 2015, Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) for the first time ever is showing, eLog, a solution for digitising the performance of every weapon system - enabling superior small arms inventory and maintenance management at all levels and saving money in MRO. As a complete management & control solution – the eLog is comprised of weapon-embedded sensor modules, PDA terminals that collect available data, and advanced armorer management software. According to Uri Amit, President and CEO: "Despite today's widespread use of digital documentation across industries and types of organizations, the military has been slow to make the switch. For the most part, armies are still using outdated documentation methods, even for keeping track of and maintaining their weapons. To overcome this critical lag, IWI has developed eLog – helping armies to quickly and easily become digitized, and thus enabling them to make decisions based on comprehensive, real-time information."
He continued, "The system will provide armies with invaluable, previously unavailable information that will enable full control and monitoring of weapon spare parts and ammunition inventories, and will deliver alerts regarding weapon thefts."


The eLog system consists of three main components: weapon-embedded sensor modules, terminals that collect available data, and armorer management software. Every weapon is equipped with an embedded Concealed Sensor Module. This sensor records the firearm's real-time operation and performance. The sensor is operated by a replaceable coin battery with an average operation cycle of at least 3 years, depending on usage. The sensor reports the number of shots fired, the weapon's serial number, and the last shooting record. Additional information is available upon customer requirement. Communication between the sensor and the terminal reader is via RF technology, transmitting within up to a 40m range. And the systems tells the operator when it is time for MRO. The Mobile Terminal Reader is a rugged PDA which communicates with the sensor module and collects the recorded data. The terminal can simultaneously read data from a specific group of weapons. The computer-based Armorer Management Software provides a detailed view of each weapon's status and performance. According to the accumulated data, the system generates recommendations or modifications for maintenance and repair of the weapons. The location of stored weapons is continuously verified, and alerts are sent if a weapon is removed without authorization or stolen. The system manages inventory of spare parts and ammunition consumption, and logs weapon history. IWI will also offer that system to other weapon producers.

Rockwell Collins announced on Tuesday 14th April its latest progress on the Brazilian Air Force’s KC-390 programme, which includes new deliveries of flight test software and transitioning of product manufacturing for the aircraft to Brazil.

Rockwell Collins has provided Embraer with its third delivery of Pro Line Fusion flight test software for the KC-390, offering increased maturity and full functionality in support of the flight test campaign. The high level of maturity provided in the software will allow Embraer to begin taking certification credit from the first of the test campaign. The KC-390 completed its first 90-minute maiden flight February 3 with the Pro Line Fusion solution, which performed exceptionally well.


Rockwell Collins has also started transitioning display and control panel build capability for the KC-390 into Brazil with a new partner – Jabil do Brasil. Jabil is currently developing test solutions in its U.S. facilities that will transfer to Brazil in 2016 to support the production phase of the programme.

“Rockwell Collins continues to grow and deliver quality to our customers in Brazil,” said Alan Prowse, vice president and managing director, Americas, for Rockwell Collins. “And we are reaffirming our commitment to transferring technology and creating economic opportunity in the country.”

The KC-390 program marks the first military application of Rockwell Collins’ highly advanced Pro Line Fusion integrated avionics system, which entered the business jet segment in 2012. It also represents the highest content that Rockwell Collins has on an Embraer military aircraft.

At the same day, Rockwell Collins’ Talon radio was also selected by Embraer for Brazilian Air Force I-X Project. “This is a key program win for us, as it represents our first Talon radio sale to Embraer for a Brazilian Air Force program, and is a complement to our existing Talon radio position on Brazilian Army rotary aircraft,” said Prowse. “With this contract, our investment and relationships in Brazil continue to grow stronger, as they have for the past 40 years.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Rockwell Collins will provide Talon radios for six Embraer Legacy 500 aircraft, which also feature Rockwell Collins’ Pro Line Fusion avionics. Under the Brazilian Air Force I-X Project, the Legacy 500 aircraft will be used for flight inspection and airport calibration missions.

One of the unique features of the program is the ability to smoothly and easily integrate the Talon radios into the Pro Line Fusion avionics, both proven solutions developed by Rockwell Collins. The Rockwell Collins Talon radio is designed to provide the best value in features, technology and growth capabilities. This series of receiver-transmitters features a digital radio architecture that allows easy reprogramming with different waveforms and operating modes through the use of digital signal processing technology.

Rockwell Collins is celebrating it 40th anniversary in Brazil and brought a whole bunch of new products to the show. “We have proudly called Brazil our South American home for 40 years and we continue to expand our presence. Over those many years, we have been actively involved in a number of key civil and military projects, including most recently our Pro Line Fusion avionics system for the new KC-390,” Nelson Aquino, managing director, Brazil for Rockwell Collins said. “We are not only contributing to the country’s technological growth, but also to the expansion of jobs, the community and the local economy. We look forward to accelerating our growth in the future.”

As a world premier Rockwell Collins to introduce the new TruNet network communications solution. Thanks to the multi-waveform capabilities, TruNet is the first system of its kind that enables Brazil’s civil and governmental users to use existing or develop their own proprietary waveform and crypto to meet their sovereign mission needs, so Rockwell Collins.



“Rockwell Collins, with its product depth and experience across ground and air domains, is uniquely qualified to provide an integrated ground-air network with the capabilities of TruNet,” said Alan Prowse, vice president and managing director, Americas for Rockwell Collins. “All products that are part of the TruNet network run the exact same waveforms and capabilities, which provides the potential to support all of Brazil and other Latin American countries’ civil and military forces by enabling them to ‘plug and play’ and work seamlessly together.”

“Whether it is tactical, border patrol, urban or coastal security, disaster recovery or search and rescue, TruNet is the most capable and flexible system yet introduced to meet the varying communications needs of Brazil’s civil and military leaders,” Prowse said.

The three major components of TruNet are the two Rockwell Collins Airborne Radios (AR-1000/1500 1-channel & AR-2000/2500 2-channel) and Ground Radio (GR-2000/2500 2-channel) Series, along with advanced handheld (TIGR 1-channel) technology from the company’s alliance partner, Thales Defense & Security.



The TruNet solution delivers mission critical capability, relying on proven performance required by advanced warfighters. The system’s software defined radios (SDRs) provide multiple waveforms, both narrow and wideband, high speed, mobile ad hoc networked communications, point-to-point data, voice and next-generation SATCOM capabilities.

The TruNet family quadruple up to 140+ nodes per network, with a latency less than 300 msec, with a multi-hop technology and more output power for a longer reach. The Ground Radio GR-2000/2500 (manpack) with two channels is extremely lightweight, covers a brought range of frequencies and offer these waveforms: HaveQuick/HaveQuick II, SINCGARS/ESIP, MUOS, Soldier Radio Waveform/SRW, SATURN, Talon I/II, LOS, VULOS, ATC, JNW, JCW, SCA, DAMA, IW, MELP and some more.

Also being featured for the first time at LAAD is Rockwell Collins’ ARINC Advanced Information Management (AIM) physical security system. “We are extremely excited to introduce our ARINC AIM physical security system for the first time to Brazil and the Latin American market at LAAD,”  Aquino said. “While ARINC AIM can be tailored to the needs of Brazil’s civil and governmental requirements, with its advanced security capabilities, the system is especially suited for securing the country’s infrastructure. As Brazil’s power, transportation and communications infrastructure continue to grow, so will its need to provide uninterrupted security and surveillance. ARINC AIM provides command-and-control for secure facilities, such as military installations, power plants, seaports and airports. ARINC AIM has already proven to provide real-time surveillance and situational awareness and security at critical infrastructure sites in the United States, and now we are very happy to introduce this important system to Brazil.”

Other topics presented at the Rockwell Collins both are: HF Cellular Communications, secure, beyond-line-of-sight networking, ideally suited to assure connection in harsh environments such as the Amazon region. SubNet Relay: Mobile ad hoc networked communications for maritime operations enabling the movement of high bandwidth data. Pro Line Fusion integrated avionics system: Pro Line Fusion leverages commercial technology for military aircraft for advanced capabilities at reduced lifecycle costs. The system is currently flying on the Embraer KC-390. Athena UAV control and navigation: Small form factor, redundant, reliable and affordable flight control and navigation solutions, proven with more than 1 million hours in combat theater. Virtual Avionics Procedural Trainer: Cost effective pilot training concurrent with avionics updates, featuring the Embraer KC-390 Pro Line Fusion flight deck and a Patrol Persistent Surveillance System (PPSS): Affordable, scalable perimeter security, enables instant knowledge about threats to facilities or encampments (company or platoon level).

FREQUENTIS solutions are designed for a wide range of applications of network-enabled capabilities to efficiently synchronise efforts of civilian and military entities in mission-critical operations. The company’s products and solutions are behind more than 25,000 operator positions deployed in over 115 countries. Using the whole bandwidth of this extensive portfolio, FREQUENTIS is a leading provider of mission-tailored solutions, all providing value for money and making our world a safer place every day!

One major highlight at the LAAD is a setup of the innovative smartVISION solution. The newly designed product not only enables air traffic controllers operating airfields from a different location, but also provides the capability to enhance the optical view a controller has at its tower working position. The combination of infrared and electro-optical (EO) cameras (180° / 360°) that integrate flight data information on a monitor allows the controller to safely operate the local air traffic from any position – either geographically dislocated or in a protected infrastructure. SmartVISION does not only provide a camera view of the local air space, it also provides additional information (speed, direction, distance, etc.) that helps the controller guide air vehicles in the aerodrome area. Combined with other FREQUENTIS tools, such as Electronic Flight Strips, the Tower Automation Tools, and obviously the voice communication system, the developed solution meets any requirements for state of the art tower operations.

Frequentis smartVISION

Frequentis iSecCOM

Another highlight is the so called iSecCOM. This product is a highly available voice communication system designed for safety-critical environments. Due to its flexibility and scalability it can be used in command and control centres as well as in military air traffic control. The system is employed in stationary, deployable and mobile configurations. iSecCOM is a completely IP-based system, connecting command posts and air control centres with nationwide radio sites including remote control of the tactical radios which can be integrated in existing IP-based wide area networks. The system is able to integrate all kind of encryption devices and thus allows an encrypted transmission from the operator at the ground to the pilot. The operator position itself allows simultaneous monitoring of both security domains using a single headset and a touch entry device. The headset is connected to a certified (Common Criteria EAL 4+) audio switch, which enables and guarantees call separation from and to the different security domains (red/black separation).

FREQUENTIS communication solutions represent a safe investment for current and future communication requirements in a safety critical environment. They build up on high product and service quality, outstanding levels of availability and reliability, award-winning human machine interfaces as well as their distinctive architecture and inherent interoperability.

IACIT, the Brazilian strategic defence company is preparing to open in Brazil a modern, world-class maintenance facility for the local support and maintenance of IAI-ELTA’s airborne radars. This facility is part of the transfer-of-technology and knowhow by IACIT and its technologic partner IAI-ELTA, and will serve the growing number of ELM-2032 Fire Control Radars in use by the Brazilian Navy, as well as the ELM-2022 Maritime Patrol radar in operation with the Brazilian Air Force. The facility includes highly-automated test equipment to provide rapid and reliable turnaround times for the radar systems.

The ELM-2032 Fire Control Radar was provided for the Brazilian Navy A4 SKYHAWK aircraft which underwent highly successful avionic and system upgrades. The ELM-2022 radar is in operational use by the Brazilian Air Force C-295 and P-3 fleet for its maritime patrol, surveillance, and search and rescue (SAR) missions.

“IACIT, with its extensive experience in delivering successful integrated logistic support for projects throughout Brazil, will provide our customer with high system availability by means of a short turnaround time for their airborne radars”, said Luiz Teixeira, IACIT CEO and President-Director.“IACIT’s airborne radar maintenance facility will provide a complete testing system for the state of the art equipment available on the market.”

"We are continuously committed to providing maintenance and support activities in Brazil, and establishing an in-country facility together with IACIT is a clear expression of this policy,"said Nisim Hadas, IAI Executive VP & ELTA president,"We believe that in the future this facility can expand as a support hub for additional Latin American customers.”