Defense Update Newscast

More details Clarify Contractor's Role, Plans for CISCHR Radios

The US Department of Defense selected Harris and Thales Communications Inc. as the two contenders to compete for multi-year deliveries of new 'multi-band radios' to the US armed forces, as part of Joint Tactical Radio System (JPEO JTRS). The Consolidated, Interim, Single-Channel, Handheld Radio (CISCHR) award has consolidated all handheld radio purchases for the U.S. Department of Defense, thus accelerating the transition and reducing cost of JTRS technology. Thales and Harris, the two contenders participating in the CISCHR at this stage, will compete to win future delivery orders, which will ultimately determine contract value. As further JTRS systems are matured, more participants are expected to be added to the program.

Israel's Navy to Equip with IAI's POO, MiniPOP EO Payloads

The Israeli Navy will equip its surface vessels and patrol boats with the POP electro-optical stabilized payload, and miniPOP systems, eveloped and produced by Israel Aerospace Industries' (IAI) Tamam Division.

Israel's Navy to Equip with IAI's POO, MiniPOP EO Payloads

The Israeli Navy will equip its surface vessels and patrol boats with the POP electro-optical stabilized payload system, developed and produced by Israel Aerospace Industries' (IAI) Tamam Division.

Harris, Thales Compete Multi-Billion JTRS Radio Procurement

The US Department of Defense selected Harris and Thales Communications Inc. as the two contenders to compete for multiyear deliveries of new 'multiband radios' to the US armed forces, as part of Joint Tactical Radio System (JPEO JTRS). Harris was awarded $2.7 billion while Thales Communications Inc. received $3.5 billion to cover the first year procurement. More about the program in today's DEFENSE UPDATE newscast.

RAFAEL Introduces Helicopter Launched Mini-UAV

RAFAEL is adding a dramatic new capability to attack helicopters – the ability to launch mini-UAVs when airborne. The company is demonstrating this capability on their attack helicopter simulator (Helicoat). “The Skylite was originally developed as a canister launched mini-UAV, so its modification into a helicopter-borne system does not require drastic redesign” says Menachem Dvir from RAFAEL. The canister-launched Skylite is displayed loaded on a quad Spike launcher, identical to a launcher already cleared for helicopters such as the Spanish Tiger attack helicopter. “When on a mission, helicopters can deploy the Skylite to scan an without exposing themselves to anti-aircraft threats, such as shoulder fired missiles (MANPADS) and RPGs. When targets are detected, Skylite hands over the images to the crew, for prosecution with precision guided weapons such as Spike ER. Attack helicopters are already using UAVs to facilitate accelerated ‘kill chains’. Therefore, offering such capability as an integral capability is the next logical step” said Dvir.

Elbit Systems Introduces a New MALE UAV - Hermes 900

Addressing the growing demand for tactical, medium altitude long endurance (MALE) UAV platforms, Elbit Systems is unveiling a new 'mid-size' platform called Hermes 900. Positioned between the successful Hermes 450 and the long endurance Hermes 1500 twin engine craft, the new Hermes 900 will weigh 970 kg (Maximum takeoff weight) and a wingspan of 15 meters. While offering all Hermes 450 capabilities, the new aircraft features larger multi-payload configurations (up to 300 kg), higher flight altitude and extended flight time without the need for external fuel tanks. Read more on the new HERMES in today's DEFENSE UPDATE.

Israel's Sustains its Space Superiority with 5th Successful Recce Satellite Launch

DEFENSE-UPDATE brings the latest details on Israel's recent OFEQ-7 spy satellite launch, and the development of its space program.

Iran Challenges Israel's Domination of the 'high ground' of Space

DEFENSE UPDATE Analysis: Israel is not alone in its space activities. In fact, Space has become an integral component of modern military planning and the Middle East is no exception to its ambitious quest in space.

Xilinx to Harden Virtex-5 Microchip Series against Radiation Effects

DEFENSE UPDATE reports about a new radiation hardening program funded by the US Air Force, to be implemented in programmable integrated circuits (FPGA) produced by Xilinx Inc. These radiation hardened components will contribute to simpler, more robust electronic applications in missiles and spacecraft. Xilinx is expected to complete the development by 2010. The hardening process will be extensible to future FPGA technology generations. For more news check DEFENSE UPDATE.

US Navy to Test SHARP with Hyperspectral Capability

The US Navy is planning to demonstrate advanced target cueing capability with its Shared Reconnaissance Pod (SHARP). BAE Systems will develop a hyperspectral imaging sensor for a target cueing system to be integrated into the US Navy SHARP) developed by Raytheon. This program will be the first hyperspectral technology implemented on a tactical fighter. Read more about this item on Defense Update