INDUSTRY WATCH: Who’s who and what’s what in the defence sector

By David Pugliese

Delivery of New Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue Aircraft Opens The Door to a New Era for the RCAF

With the arrival of the first C-295 fixed-wing search and rescue aircraft at CFB Comox on Sept. 17 the Royal Canadian Air Force is now preparing its crew training regime and getting ready for the delivery of additional planes.

The second and third aircraft are anticipated to arrive in Canada by the end of 2020, Department of National Defence spokeswoman Jessica Lamirande told Esprit de Corps.

Aircrew interim training is scheduled to start in November, followed by initial operational testing and evaluation in early 2021, she added. Both activities will be conducted at 19 Wing, Comox.

Initial operational capability is anticipated in summer 2022, Lamirande noted.

A $2.4 billion contract for 16 new CC-295 fixed-wing search and rescue aircraft to replace Canada’s fleets of Buffalo and Hercules H aircraft was awarded to Airbus Defence and Space on December 1, 2016. The contract also includes all In-Service Support elements, training and engineering services, the construction of a new training centre in Comox, BC and maintenance and support services.

«Airbus is really proud to be able to celebrate this important milestone: the arrival of the first out of 16 Fixed Wing Search and Rescue C295 at the Canadian Forces Base Comox,” Airbus Defence and Space Chief Executive Officer, Dirk Hoke, said in a video statement displayed during the official aircraft welcome event held at the 19 Wing Comox Air Base. “Thanks to the excellent collaboration with Canadian officials we have overcome the challenges caused by COVID-19 and we were able to deliver the aircraft. Despite the current pandemic, we are confident of achieving the program target of six deliveries by the end of this year. We look forward to our continued collaboration and to the C295 Canada.”

Aircraft will roll off the production line at an average rate of five per year, with the sixteenth expected to come off the assembly line in mid-2022. That final aircraft will be delivered sometime in the fall of that year. Each aircraft must complete initial operational capability preparations and testing to be ready for service, according to the RCAF. The new aircraft will be referred to as Kingfishers.

The RCAF will operate the new fixed-wing fleet from 19 Wing Comox, 8 Wing Trenton, 14 Wing Greenwood, and 17 Wing Winnipeg; the same locations currently providing search and rescue services across the country.

Five aircraft will be based first at 19 Wing Comox, with two of those allocated to the Operational Training Unit, Lamirande noted. Then, three aircraft will be at 8 Wing Trenton, three aircraft will operate out of 14 Wing Greenwood, and finally, three aircraft will be based at 17 Wing Winnipeg. The remaining two aircraft will be rotated through the four bases to cover periods where aircraft must undergo maintenance, she added.

The new CC-295 FWSAR aircraft are being equipped with sensor suites that will include a search radar to detect objects from long range (more than 40 kilometers, depending on object size) and in all weather conditions; an electro-optical/infra-red sensor to detect and identify objects, including heat radiation during searches where vision is obscured (e.g. night searches, searching in wooded areas, etc.); an automatic identification system to identify and locate transponder-equipped ships; a communication system that will increase interoperability with other search and rescue assets; and, a new mission management system that can record and track multiple search objects at the same time.

The RCAF provided to Esprit de Corps a list of equipment and design changes that are unique to Canada’s CC-295s. They include:

• Rockwell Collins ProLine Fusion Cockpit

• Head Up Display (HUD)/Enhanced Vision System (EVS)

• Bubble Windows

• Surveillance Radar made by ELTA

• Electro Optical (EO)/Infrared (IR) (MX15 model)

• Dual Satellite Communications (SATCOM) installation

• Cyber security firewall

• Wireless Intercom System (WIS)

• Drag reduction – main landing gear doors, vanes

• Fuselage reinforcement for ditching + ditching hatch

• Wing reinforcements (to meet fatigue life requirements)

• Semi Prepared Runway Operations (SPRO) improvements (gravel
deflector or reinforced radome)

• Computed Air Release Point (CARP)

• Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS)

• Marker Dispenser Tube (MDT)

• Aeromedical configuration – patient treatment area

• Paint Scheme – non-slip paint on upper surface, propeller tip paint

• Lavatory / galley layout

 The Rockwell Collins ProLine Fusion Cockpit, the Electro Optical/Infrared and the Surveillance Radar are seen by the RCAF as some of the more important attributes of the aircraft.

Part of the project includes the construction of a new training centre, which is being built in Comox by CAE. That centre includes ten classrooms, as well as sophisticated training devices such as a full-flight simulator, a cockpit procedures trainer, a sensor station simulator, and an aircraft maintenance trainer. The centre will be used to train both maintenance and aircrews.

Canadian company AirPro will provide day-to-day management of all in-service support for the provision of engineering, logistics, maintenance, training, IT systems, infrastructure and materiel support throughout the contracted CC-295 life cycle. Significant high-value jobs have been and will continue to be generated from this contract with Canadian companies such as PAL Aerospace, Pratt and Whitney Canada, CAE, and AirPro, according to the federal government.

In preparation for the training of maintenance crews a C-295 aircraft arrived at CFB Comox in February. The big difference between that plane and the one that arrived Sept. 17 is that the earlier aircraft, while almost identical to a C-295, does not have nor need the full mission equipment capability to conduct search and rescue missions. It is not one of the 16 C-295 aircraft being procured under the fixed wing search and rescue project. Instead, it is considered an additional asset that is part of the training solution and will be taken apart. “It will be used to train maintenance technicians on rigging, removal and reinstallation procedures,” explained Department of National Defence spokesman Dan Le Bouthillier. “Therefore, not all components need to be operationally functional and can instead be less expensive replicas.”

That plane will be registered as a training asset, not an aircraft.

Industry Watch: Who's who and what's what in the defence sector

By David Pugliese

The Canadian Army is equipping its snipers with new weaponry and will soon be going to industry with its specifications. The procurement will be for 229 bolt action sniper rifles to be designated as the C21. The rifles will be used for long-range shooting and will come in two different calibres.

The C21 program is unique in that it will be open to all small arms companies which want to bid, rather than a sole-source purchase directed to Colt Canada.

The C21-Multi Calibre Sniper Weapon or MCSW will be a modular sniper rifle platform that will allow the use of various calibres to meet operations and training needs. The chosen calibre for operational use is the .338 Lapua Magnum while the preferred calibre for training is the 7.62 x 51 mm NATO (.308 Win),  Warrant Officer Mike Tousignant, who is a sniper working in the Directorate of Land Requirements, explained to Esprit de Corps. 

The system allows the user to swap between calibres while maintaining the same form, fit and functions provided by the common frame and its accessories, he added.

Viking Air Limited of Victoria, BC, and the Fuerza Aerea del Peru (FAP) have renewed their Twin Otter Series 400 aircraft support contract for a further five years. The deal was originally initiated in 2016. The FAP operates twelve Series 400 Twin Otters that provide civil protection, environmental monitoring, critical infrastructure support and emergency medevac services in the remote Amazonian regions of northeast Peru, according to Viking.

Logistik Unicorp Inc. has been awarded a contract to provide non-operational
clothing and footwear for the Canadian Armed Forces. The non-operational clothing and footwear contract (NOCFC) will provide the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces with clothing, primarily for non-operational and non-combat duties, all managed by one company. For example, these types of clothing and footwear are often worn when military members are participating in a parade. The benefits of this type of clothing solution include the ability for people to order items they need online and have it shipped to their door, according to the Department of National Defence. It also includes quicker turnaround times for product improvements, and a reduced risk of running out of stock.

Logistik Unicorp will be required to conform to mandatory Canadian content requirements, which in turn will help ensure that the majority of the manufacturing of clothing and footwear items is done in Canada.

The NOCFC will supply approximately 1,500 items of clothing for more than 160,000 people. This includes clothing items such as Regular and Reserve Force service dress uniforms, shorts, shirts, hats, shoes, as well as occupation-specific clothing items, such as those for civilian and military firefighters, military police and civilian drivers. Also included is clothing for the Canadian Rangers, Junior Rangers and Cadets.

A contract valued at $415 million was awarded to Logistik Unicorp Inc. of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC, for an initial 6-year period. It includes options valued at up to $2.7 billion over 20 years. 

CAE announced the appointment of Daniel Gelston as Group President, Defence & Security, effective August 24. He will be based in Washington, D.C. and will be succeeding Heidi Wood, CAE’s Executive Vice–President, Business Development & Growth Initiatives, who was also acting as interim Group President.

OSI Maritime Systems of Burnaby, BC, highlighted that NUSHIP Supply (II), the Royal Australian Navy’s new Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment ship, has successfully completed its sea acceptance trials in Ferrol, Spain. OSI is contracted by Navantia to design and deliver Integrated Bridge Systems for the Royal Australian Navy’s SEA 1654 AOR Program. In addition, OSI is providing onboard training and supervision of the system as the ship transits to its delivery destination.

“Working directly with Navantia was a rewarding experience,” Ken Kirkpatrick, President and CEO, OSI Maritime Systems., said in a statement “It brought together partners from Spain, Australia, and Canada, and demonstrated the cooperation that is possible in the global ship building industry even with the challenges brought on by COVID-19.”

NUSHIP Supply (II) is the first of two ships being delivered to the Royal Australian Navy. When commissioned, the ships are intended to carry fuel, dry cargo, water, food, ammunition, equipment and spare parts to provide operational support for the deployed naval or combat forces operating far from the port on the high seas for prolonged operational periods.

The future Canadian Coast Guard vessel, the CCGS John Cabot, cruised out of English Bay in Vancouver on Aug. 18 to begin sea trials. The event marked another major milestone for this third Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel (OFSV) built by Seaspan Shipyards under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. 

The future CCGS John Cabot began sea trials just six weeks after its official launch on July 3 at Seaspan’s North Vancouver shipyard, the company noted. The time span between launch and sea trials is considered best-in-class in the shipbuilding industry and echoes the ship’s 97 per cent complete status at launch, according to Seaspan. The firm pointed out that is a rare accomplishment at launch that exceeded international benchmarks. 

On completion of sea trials, the future CCGS John Cabot will be prepared for delivery to the Canadian Coast Guard and then will sail to her home port St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. There she will take her place in the Coast Guard fleet alongside sister ships CCGS Sir John Franklin and CCGS Capt. Jacques Cartier. 

“Moving from launch to sea trials in record time, particularly during a global pandemic, is a testament to the incredible talent and determination of the Seaspan Shipyards team, and intense collaboration and teamwork from our supply chain partners and the Canadian Coast Guard,” said Mark Lamarre, Chief Executive Officer, Seaspan Shipyards.

The ship is the third OFSV built by Seaspan Shipyards under the National Shipbuilding Strategy. She will join her sister ships already in service — the CCGS Sir John Franklin, delivered in December 2019 and now stationed in Victoria, BC, and the CCGS Capt. Jacques Cartier, delivered on June 2019 and currently stationed in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. 
Montenegro’s Air Force has signed a purchase agreement for two Bell 505 Jet Ranger X’s from Bell Textron Inc. The aircraft will be used to train the Montenegrin military pilots. The Bell 505s will be built by Bell Textron Canada at their facility in Mirabel, Que.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

By David Pugliese

Saab has started Gripen production in Brazil. The work is being done at Saab Aeronáutica Montagens or SAM, the company’s first aerostructures plant outside of Sweden for the new Gripen E/F fighter. This site is now building sections of Gripen, which will then be delivered to the final assembly facilities at the Embraer plant in Gaviao Peixoto, Sao Paulo, Brazil and to Linkoping, Sweden.

In 2014, Saab signed a contract with Brazilian government for the development and production of 36 Gripen E/F aircraft. In September last year, the first Brazilian Gripen E aircraft was delivered to start the flight test program. 

The tail cone and front fuselage of the single-seat version of the Gripen fighter are the first aerostructures to enter into production at SAM. Subsequently, the aerodynamic brakes, rear fuselage, wing box and front fuselage for the two-seater version will also be manufactured at SAM.

The Saab Gripen is one of the contenders to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CF-18 fighter jets. Saab has also suggested that if the Gripen is selected as Canada’s new fighter aircraft it could assemble the planes in Canada.

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has signed a contract with General Dynamics Land Systems - Canada for delivery of the Protector Remote Weapon Stations (RWS) to the Canadian Army. The Protector RWS will be integrated on Canada’s fleet of armored combat support vehicles. Canada signed its their first Protector RWS contract in 2005 followed by additional contracts in 2012 and 2014.

The Canadian Army will receive the latest generation Protector RWS, a Remote Weapon Station prepared for wireless control, counter UAS capability, multi-sensor fusion, as well as other new functions required by the expanding user community.

The contract is worth more than $50 million.

The Kongsberg Protector RWS is also outfitted on the Canadian Army’s Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicles. The company has delivered about 20,000 Protector systems to militaries around the world.

 Leonardo DRS, Inc. announced July 7 that the company has delivered its 70,000th mission command computing system known as the Mounted Family of Computer Systems (MFoCS), to the U.S. Army. The delivery marks two decades of providing the U.S. military advanced tactical computing units for ground combat vehicles and command post operations. MFoCS systems provide ruggedized modular computing capabilities for the U.S Army and other services, giving warfighters the next-generation of computing and display technology with faster processing performance, according to  Leonardo DRS. This enables support for simultaneous applications as well as the integration of additional sensors and communications networks.

The Canadian government announced it will enter into a contract with Brampton-based MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Inc. (MDA) to build Canadarm3. The smart robotic system is Canada’s contribution to the U.S.-led Lunar Gateway for the Artemis program. The development of Canadarm3 will extend and strengthen Canada’s well-established global leadership in space robotics, according to the federal government.

Canadarm3 will be composed of a next-generation smart robotic arm, a small dexterous arm and a set of specialized tools. Using advanced machine vision, software and advances in artificial intelligence, the highly autonomous system will be able to perform tasks without human intervention.

In 2019, Canada became the first nation to join the United States-led Lunar Gateway, the next major international collaboration in human space exploration following the legacy of the International Space Station. The Gateway is an important part of an ambitious plan by NASA and international partners, including Canada, to send humans deeper into space than ever before. 

Meggitt Training Systems has been awarded a $4.4 million (U.S.) contract extension from Public Services and Procurement Canada, on behalf of the Department of National Defence, to provide in-service support to the Canadian Armed Forces for Meggitt’s Small Arms Trainer (SAT) and Indirect Fire Trainer (IFT). 

The original contract won by Meggitt Training Systems (Quebec), a subsidiary of Suwanee-based Meggitt Training Systems Inc., began in June 2015 and includes operator and maintenance support for related training activities. “Meggitt has been a proud supplier of weapon simulation to the Canadian Armed Forces for more than 20 years,” Ed Duckless, president of Meggitt Training Systems (Quebec), said in a statement.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, British Columbia’s Provincial Health Officer, joined a small number of Seaspan Shipyards employees and special guests on July 3 to break the customary bottle of champagne against the bow of the future CCGS John Cabot, officially launching the third Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel (OFSV) for the Canadian Coast Guard. The July launch of the future CCGS John Cabot is a particularly impressive achievement given that construction was completed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Seaspan officials pointed out. Seaspan Shipyards significantly adapted its normal operations to continue building the ship while ensuring the health and well-being of employees, customers, partners and the community. The traditional public celebration was scaled back to a skeleton launch party including Dr. Henry, Tsleil-Waututh elder Margaret George, representatives from the Canadian Coast Guard, and the handful of employees needed to launch the vessel.
Dr. Henry, who began her career as a medical officer with the Royal Canadian Navy, was invited by Seaspan to officially launch the vessel in recognition of her leadership and efforts to keep British Columbians safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 1,200 Seaspan Shipyards employees and more than 400 Canadian small and medium-sized companies and their thousands of employees across the country contributed to the construction of the vessel which entered the water at 97 per cent complete. The CCGS John Cabot, the CCGS Capt. Jacques Cartier and the CCGS Sir John Franklin are the first class of ships built under the National Shipbuilding Strategy. Measuring 63.4 metres, the CCGS John Cabot will be one of the most advanced and capable ships of its size and type in the world, according to Seaspan. Her sister ships, the CCGS Sir John Franklin, now stationed in Victoria, British Columbia, and the CCGS Capt. Jacques Cartier, stationed in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, are already in service. 

Following sea trials and upon delivery to the Coast Guard, anticipated later this summer, the CCGS John Cabot will be based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

By David Pugliese

Seaspan delivers second Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel

Seaspan Shipyards announced Dec. 10 that it completed the delivery of CCGS Capt. Jacques Cartier, the Canadian Coast Guard’s newest Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel or OFSV. It is the second OFSV delivered by Seaspan, which was her sister ship, the CCGS Sir John Franklin. 

These two ships are the first large vessels delivered under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.

More than 600 Canadian firms were involved in the project.

Measuring 63.4 metres, the CCGS
Capt. Jacques Cartier is one of the most advanced and capable ships of its size and type in the world, according to Seaspan. Fully equipped to support Fisheries and Ocean scientists in the collection and analysis of data on Canada’s marine ecosystems and the impacts of climate change, the vessel features a full suite of modern systems, including high-tech fishing trawls and four science labs — a wet lab, a dry lab, an ocean lab and a control lab, the company added. The OFSV also has a deployable drop keel, loaded with a wide array of sensors to support the vessel’s research
mandate.

The CCGS Capt. Jacques Cartier will also support search and rescue operations and environmental response. A third OFSV under construction at Seaspan Shipyards is structurally complete and on schedule to be delivered in August 2020, Seaspan added.

The Department of National Defence says it will work with Airbus to ensure the completion of technical manuals needed for the new Fixed Wing Search and Rescue Aircraft.

The first of the new C295 aircraft was supposed to be handed over in early December but that was not done as there have been challenges in the completion of the required technical manuals, DND noted.

“We continue to collaborate with Airbus, prioritizing the work required in order to deliver the new search and rescue aircraft safely and effectively,” DND spokesman Dan Le Bouthillier said. “While it is not yet known if this will cause a delay in final delivery, we remain optimistic that the supplier can work towards an acceptable solution so that our on-site testing and evaluations can be done prior to flying the first aircraft to Canada next spring, as previously planned.”

In the meantime, Collins Aerospace Systems used the Dubai Air Show to highlight the fact that the new C295 tactical aircraft come equipped with the firm’s state-of-the-art Pro Line Fusion flight deck. That will significantly advance the capabilities of C295 operators, Collins Aerospace Systems noted. The selection marks the first fixed-wing search and rescue platform to include Pro Line Fusion among its standard equipment. Collins Aerospace is a unit of United Technologies Corp.

The Pro Line Fusion flight deck designed for the C295 includes key features to help operators during search and rescue, and other tactical missions. It includes: our 14.1-inch (35.8 cm) touchscreen displays to provide a more intuitive interface for pilots to interact and customize their information on the flight deck; night-vision goggle capability to help ensure successful missions in low light conditions;  Head-Up Displays that enable the pilot to keep their eyes up for enhanced situational awareness;  Enhanced Vision System (EVS) sensor that allows pilots to see through low-visibility conditions; overlaid weather radar that shows a graphical depiction of weather along the flight plan for easy viewing; Integrated Terrain Awareness and Warning System that enables high-resolution 3D obstacle depiction and enhances mission safety, and fully integrated Mission Flight Management Systems supporting Search and Rescue patterns, Computed Air Release Points and High Altitude Release Points.

In addition, the flight deck was designed to meet evolving airspace and regulatory requirements, future-proofing it for years to come, Collins Aerospace pointed out.

Dave Schreck, vice president and general manager for Military Avionics and Helicopters at Collins Aerospace, said the flight deck implementation is an excellent example of how the firm is able to apply the latest commercial avionics technology and integrate it with military functions and capabilities for customers. He noted the Pro Line Fusion integrated avionics system will reduce pilot workload and increase ease of operation for all future C295 operators

L3Harris Technologies recently delivered two F/A-18 Hornet aircraft to NASA after successfully completing depot-level modifications and repair work. The two aircraft were recently delivered to NASA by L3Harris Canadian Fighter Center of Excellence. Vertex Aerospace LLC selected L3Harris to work on the NASA F/A-18 Hornet aircraft in 2018. As part of the scheduled maintenance work, L3Harris has addressed structural modifications, while maximizing the availability of the aircraft for operational use. The work involved structural modifications to eliminate flight and landing restrictions. L3Harris is seen as a world leader in developing and implementing F/A-18 structural modification and life extension solutions, having already completed major structural programs for the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force, and assisting other F/A-18 users, including the Swiss Air Force, the Finnish Air Force, and the U.S. Navy

The United Arab Emirates used the Dubai Airshow to announce it intended to conclude a contract amendment for the purchase of two additional GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft from Saab. The potential order value related to the contract amendment would be around $1 billion U.S.

The original development and production contract for GlobalEye was awarded to Saab at the Dubai Air Show in November 2015 by the United Arab Emirates with an initial order for two systems. An additional order by the UAE for a third system was announced in 2017. GlobalEye provides air, maritime and ground surveillance in a single solution, according to Saab. It combines a new extended range radar with the ultra-long range Global 6000jet aircraft from Bombardier.

MBDA has signed an agreement to purchase GDI Simulation from Airbus. Terms of the deal are not being disclosed.

GDI Simulation is one of the leading French players in simulation for the French Armed Forces. GDI Simulation, based in the Ile de France, has over 70 employees. It develops, assembles, integrates and maintains simulation systems for ground vehicles and for MBDA battlefield missiles, for the French and foreign armed forces. GDI Simulation will continue to operate independently under the ownership of MBDA.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

By David Pugliese

Government prepares for submarine in-service support program, Airbus shows off first C295 for Canada. The Canadian government has started the process to put in place a long-term in-service support program for the Victoria-class submarines as the existing contract finishes on June 30, 2023. In June it issued to industry a request for information. The government held an industry conference on July 16 in Gatineau to provide a procurement timeline, industry engagement plan and overview of the project. The federal government will invite firms to qualify for the project. The request for proposals is expected to be finalized by the fall of 2020 and the RFP issued then. Bid evaluations would start in the summer of 2021 and a contract awarded in spring 2022, Marc-Andre Charbonneau, spokesman for Public Services and Procurement Canada, noted in an email to Esprit de Corps. Maintenance and sustainment work could be repositioned between coasts to meet operational requirements. But all contractor-lead maintenance periods would be performed on the west coast.

The first Airbus C295, purchased by Canada for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Fixed Wing Search and Rescue Aircraft Replacement program rolled out of the paint shop showing off its final livery at Airbus facility in Seville, Spain, Airbus announced Oct. 8. The aircraft will now go through the final preparation phase before its delivery to the RCAF, planned to take place in Spain before the end of the year. GeoSpectrum Technologies announced Sept. 26 the successful trial of the Towed Reelable Active Passive Sonar (TRAPS) on board the HMCS Glace Bay, completing the final assessment of the system. The Department of National Defence’s science and technology organization, Defence Research and Development Canada, recently conducted performance trials with HMCS Glace Bay, the second Kingston Class vessel from which the GeoSpectrum’s TRAPS sonar was operated. The sonar performed well through the trials period, meeting predicted ranges in target detection, in both passive and active modes against different targets, and the system was easily deployed and recovered by a single operator, according to the company. The system offers towed active sonar capability for low, medium, and high frequencies as well as passive sonar. Paul Yeatman, President of GeoSpectrum, said TRAPS is an ideal system to augment Royal Canadian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities and allow Canada to better support missions such as anti-narcotics operations. GeoSpectrum has already been selected for international programs involving the TRAPS system, developed with support from Industrial Research Assistance Program and Build in Canada Innovation Program with Curtiss-Wright.

GeoSpectrum Technologies is based in Dartmouth, NS and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems Ltd. Finland has selected Saab as the combat system provider and integrator for the Finnish Navy’s four new Pohjanmaa-class corvettes within the Squadron 2020 program. The contract period will be from this year up to 2027 and the scope will include a range of solutions, including Saab’s 9LV Combat Management System, related sensors and other systems. All of the Finnish Navy’s current vessels feature at least one system from Saab, with the majority of vessels operating several systems from Saab. Rheinmetall has developed a new 60mm mortar for infantry and special forces. The RSG60 features design and engineering characteristics which make this indirect fire system very light and easy to handle. A few quick manual adjustments turn the 15.8 kg standard infantry version into a commando mortar weighing just 6.8 kg, with no need for tools.

This makes the RSG60 a two-in-one solution. Depending on the ammunition and charges, the standard version can attain ranges of up 3,200 metres. Equipped with a thirty centimetre-longer barrel, the range increases by around 500 metres. The commando variant of the RSG60 has a range of around 2,000 metres.  Development of the new mortar began in October 2017. The RSG60 has repeatedly undergone successful test firing. The U.S. government has announced that Canada is purchasing new radios as part of its upgrade of CF-18 fighter jets and Hercules transport planes.

The Canadian government will spend $58 million buying the 152 MIDS-JTRS radios. “Canada intends to upgrade its current inventory of CF-18 Aircraft, CC-130J, and the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Ground Stations with the purchase of these MIDS JTRS (5) terminals to be fully interoperable with U.S. and allied forces to support and compliment joint operations in a net-enabled environment; have modernized electronic protection and secure, jam-resistant wave forms; and be capable of improved Link 16 message exchange and information fidelity including support to advanced weapon employment,” the U.S Defense Security Cooperation Agency noted. Also included are spare cables and MIDS batteries; Link-16 mobile racks; diagnostic support tools; technical documentation; training and engineering technical support; and other related elements of logistics and program support. Viasat, Incorporated, headquartered in Carlsbad, CA, and Data Link Solutions, headquartered in Cedar Rapids, IA, will provide the equipment. Serco Group PLC has completed the acquisition of Alion Science & Technology Corporation’s Naval Systems Business Unit, including the firm’s Canadian business. The purchase price was $225 million. The acquisition significantly expands Serco’s work for the Canadian government for multiple maritime programs, according to the company. Among those are contracts with Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards for design agent services on the Royal Canadian Navy’s Joint Support Ship. Serco’s existing business in Canada includes supporting clients in the defence, aviation, and transportation sectors. 

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

(Volume 25 Issue 8)

By David Pugliese

Rheinmetall will supply more Argus soldier systems to the Canadian Armed Forces with deliveries scheduled to begin next year.

The Canadian military have exercised options under the Integrated Soldier System Project (ISSP) to procure an additional 1,256 Rheinmetall Argus soldier systems, the company says. The order is worth $22 million.

The Canadian government initially contracted with Rheinmetall to start the qualification phase of the Canadian Army’s Integrated Soldier System (ISS) in 2015. That was successfully completed.

The final production phase of the Argus soldier system is now underway, with 1,632 units slated for delivery this year, according to Rheinmetall.
General Jon Vance, Chief of Canadian Defence Staff, described Rheinmetall’s Argus soldier system, which is already in service with the Canadian Armed Forces, as a tool “that will improve situational awareness for [the] dismounted troops, allowing better command and control and improving their performance and protection.” Vance noted that the Argus soldier system “puts on the soldier or anybody on the ground the ability to understand their environment.”

Besides Argus, examples of already fielded Rheinmetall systems include the German Bundeswehr’s Future Soldier – Expanded System. Also included is the advanced Argus New Generation and Gladius 2.0. All of these systems bring individual infantry soldiers, combat vehicles and unmanned systems in to what Rheinmetall calls the tactical sensor-to-shooter network.

L3 WESCAM announced at the end of July the successful delivery of its first MXTM-15 electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) system to Airbus Defence and Space in support of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue aircraft replacement program. L3 WESCAM noted that the on-time delivery of the MX-15, the first of 20 planned deliveries, is a significant milestone as the Canadian Department of National Defence begins to replace its legacy SAR aircraft, the CC-115 Buffalo and CC-130H Hercules. “L3 is proud to partner with Airbus on this much-anticipated Canadian program – as it really hits close to home for WESCAM and its large base of Canadian employees,” Matt Richi, President of L3 WESCAM, said. “The aircraft and the technologies that support this program have been referred to as ‘game-changers’ for Canada, and we couldn’t be happier to be a key system in the overall solution.” 

Canada has a search area of 18 million square kilometers, making time-critical SAR operations challenging. The high-sensitivity sensors and advanced GEO and intuitive technologies within the MX-15 will provide SAR operators with exceptional day and night visual capabilities, despite atmospheric interference, and will operate with detection and identification ranges that will help to shorten search grid patterns and on-scene search times, the company pointed out. 

Australia has selected Rheinmetall for the future delivery of new military trucks and modules to the Australian Defence Force under the LAND 121 Phase 5B program. Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia will deliver more than 1000 high mobility logistics trucks and more than 800 modules to the ADF under the new program, which is an extension of the current LAND 121 Phase 3B Project. Deliveries will start in 2019 and will run to 2024. 

MDA, a Maxar Technologies company said it has acquired Neptec Design Group Ltd., a firm that produces leading electro-optical and electro-mechanical systems and high-performance intelligent Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) for $42 million.

With Neptec, MDA says it will deliver end-to-end robotic systems and an expanded set of solutions, positioning the company to capture growth in U.S., Canadian and global space exploration markets and accelerate advancement into new and expanding space segments. Neptec’s approximately 100 employees in Ottawa, Canada, and Harwell, U.K., will join MDA’s workforce of approximately 1,900 across Canada. The new Sensor business will combine with the newly created MDA Commercial Division.

The CH-148 Cyclone – the RCAF’s new maritime helicopter – recently embarked on its first international deployment. The helicopter, made by Sikorsky, is on HMCS Ville de Quebec which is taking part in Operation Reassurance.  The helicopter is operated by crew from 423 Maritime Helicopter Squadron based at 12 Wing Shearwater, Nova Scotia.

In addition, a RCAF Cyclone flew to 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron in British Columbia and was also featured at the Abbotsford Airshow in BC. The CH-148 Cyclone will replace the CH-124 Sea King as Canada’s main ship-borne maritime helicopter.

The final bids have been submitted by the various consortiums for the Canadian Surface Combatant program. The bids involve the finalized portions of the bids on designs (the technical design bids were originally submitted in November but July 20 marked the deadline for responses that deal with any questions the federal government may have had) as well as proposals for the financial elements for the project.

There are three groups that have bid on the project. Lockheed Martin Canada, is the prime on the team that includes BAE Systems, CAE, L3 Technologies, MDA, and Ultra Electronics. The team is offering the BAE Type 26 warship for the Canadian program.

Alion Science and Technology, along with its subsidiary Alion Canada, submitted their proposal based on the Dutch De Zeven Provinciën Air Defence and Command frigate. The De Zeven Provinciën-class frigate is a proven NATO vessel, built by Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding.

Alion’s combat system solution is based on the systems produced by ATLAS-Elektronik and Hensoldt Sensors. Other key suppliers include L3 Technologies Canada, Raytheon Canada Limited, DRS Technologies Canada Limited and Rheinmetall Canada Inc.

Navantia of Spain also submitted its bid and is leading a team that includes Saab Australia and CEA Technologies. Its proposal is based on the F-105 frigate design, a ship in service with the Spanish navy. W

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

The U.S. Department of Defense and Pratt & Whitney, announced on May 31 that the firm
had received a contract for the 11th lot of F135 propulsion systems, powering all
three variants of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. (David Pugliese photo)

(Volume 25-06)

By David Pugliese

Rockwell Collins has been selected by Cascade Aerospace to provide a modern weather radar for the Royal Canadian Air Force C-130H fleet. The solution will include WXR-2100 MultiScan as well as new MFD-255 and MFD-268 Multi-Function Displays, according to Rockwell Collins.

The upgrade will provide an enhanced level of weather threat detection to help RCAF pilots perform unique search and rescue missions using the C-130, assisting with the descent into visual flight conditions in order to define coastal boundaries or areas of rugged terrain.
“The RCAF is getting the latest in weather threat detection, all while gaining weight and reliability improvements compared to legacy systems,” Lee Obst, managing director, Rockwell Collins Canada, said in a statement. “As an off-the-shelf, proven solution, it will have a minimal impact on the existing avionics and is an ideal fit for C-130 operators.”
During its role in C-130 missions for the RCAF, the WXR-2100 will use advanced weather radar technology to automatically scan the environment, analyze the hazards, adjust for geographic differences in weather, eliminate ground clutter and provide a simple intuitive presentation of the entire weather threat to the pilots during flight. This hands-off approach reduces overall workload, improves situational awareness and allows for the most efficient operation of the aircraft when deviating flight paths to avoid turbulent weather, Rockwell Collins noted.

Rockwell Collins has also been selected by CAE to provide its Panorama collimated display for the CC-295 full-flight simulator (FFS). CAE will deliver that simulator in support of the RCAF’s Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue program. The Panorama display will be installed on the CAE-built CC-295 FFS, which is part of the comprehensive training program being established to prepare aircrews for their missions in the new Airbus Defence and Space CC-295 aircraft, Rockwell Collins noted. “This is a program that helps save the lives of thousands of Canadians each year and working with CAE and Airbus on training will be a critical component for the RCAF’s success,” said Obst. “The configuration flexibility and enhanced realism of the Panorama display will help better prepare pilots for the new platform.”
The Panorama display is designed for use on simulators requiring a wide field of view, cross-cockpit views and side-by-side training. It supports unobstructed fields of view up to and including 225 degrees horizontal by 60 degrees vertical, making it ideal for critical aircrew training on platforms like the P-8, NH90 helicopter, C-130 and CH-47 Chinook. Rockwell Collins is considered a leader in collimated displays, having fielded over 800 Panorama display systems to a variety of government and commercial customers for more than 25 years.

Davie and Federal Fleet Services reached another milestone with its MV Asterix. In mid-May the supply ship, accompanying Royal Canadian Navy ships, replenished two U.S. Navy vessels at the same time in the North Atlantic. The USN ships were USS Bainbridge and USS Mitscher. 

AHS International has recognized the Department of National Defence and Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, for “conducting an extraordinary international effort” to demonstrate flight and shipboard operation of the CH-148 Cyclone maritime helicopter from a Halifax-class frigate. The award cites successful expansion of the flight envelop to Sea State 6 conditions, where waves reached a height of six meters with winds up to 55 knots (100 km/hour).

On May 16, 2018, representatives from the Canadian Maritime Helicopter Project Combined Test Force accepted the Leonardo International Fellowship Award during AHS International’s annual forum. The award recognizes significant contributions to international vertical flight cooperation.

“The combined industry and government flight test team collaborated fully to demonstrate the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter’s anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions during some of the roughest winter weather imaginable,” William Falk, Sikorsky CMHP director said in a statement. “Successful demonstration of strict ship/helicopter capability is required before the Canadian government can deploy this helicopter weapon system.” 

The CMHP Combined Test Force sailed five times into the waters off Nova Scotia from 2010-2017 during late December to early March when the weather conditions produced the necessary wave heights and winds. In total, the team flew 270 hours and performed approximately 975 landings on the flight decks of HMCS Montréal and HMCS Halifax.   The shipboard tests were part of a 10-year, 2,800-hour flight test program that is expected to conclude in early 2019. The Royal Canadian Air Force will take delivery of the last of its 28 Sikorsky designed and built CH-148 Cyclone aircraft by 2021 to replace the CH-124 Sea King helicopter fleet, which retires this year. 

The U.S. Department of Defense and Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp., announced on May 31 that the firm had received a contract for the 11th lot of F135 propulsion systems, powering all three variants of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft.

The latest contract continues to support program affordability initiatives with reduction in propulsion system price, the company and the department noted. The 11th low rate initial production (LRIP) contract will cover 135 engines, as well as program management, engineering support, production support, spare modules, and spare parts. The total award for the Lot 11 propulsion systems is approximately $2 billion U.S. 

“Pratt & Whitney and our supply chain remain committed to continual cost reduction for the F135 engine and to providing a superior product at the best value for our U.S. and international customers,” John Wiedemer, vice president, F135 Program, Pratt & Whitney, said in a statement. “Since 2009, we have reduced the production cost of the F135 by more than half and are now pursuing additional affordability initiatives to drive down engine production and sustainment costs even further throughout the F-35’s planned lifecycle.” 

To date, Pratt & Whitney has delivered 375 F135 engines. Deliveries of LRIP 11 engines will start this year.

L3 Technologies Canada announced during CANSEC that retired Lt.-Gen. D. Michael Day has been appointed to its Canadian Board, L3 Technologies Canada Group Inc. The board’s mandate is to develop and promote strategic initiatives that advance L3’s competitive position and growth opportunities in Canada and the global marketplace, the firm noted. “I am pleased to welcome Mike to the L3 Technologies Canada Board of Directors,” said Christopher E. Kubasik, L3’s Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. “As a former Deputy Commander to NATO and Commander of the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, he has extensive operational and policy knowledge, and will be a great asset to the L3 Technologies team.” W

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

MDA has signed a contract with an unnamed international customer for the provision of turnkey, unmanned aircraft system surveillance services, which will include the use of a fleet of Schiebel CAMCOPTER S-100 rotary-wing unmanned aircraft. (PHOTO COURTESY OF SCHIEBEL)

(Volume 25-03)

By David Pugliese

MDA, a Maxar Technologies company, signed a contract worth around $8 million to provide the Department of National Defence with what is being called a Maritime Miniature Unmanned Aircraft Systems (MMUAS). The contract also includes services to support training, resource and equipment development activities and development and validation of naval tactics and new capability development, according to the firm.

MDA’s solution is based on the Puma AE (All Environment) unmanned aircraft built by Aeroviroment. The Puma has the ability to carry additional payloads as required for specific missions. The MMUAS is the first UAS project that will see the RCN operate and maintain its own capability and provide a sustainable shipborne, near real-time, Beyond Visual Line Of Sight (BVLOS) ISR capability with an expected introduction to the fleet in the summer of 2018 onboard Kingston-class ships.

The Puma AE is operated from the same control station as the Raven UAS which has been provided by MDA to the Canadian Army since 2013.

“We are very proud to once again, expand our unmanned aircraft systems and services to support Canada’s Department of National Defence needs,” Mike Greenley, group president for MDA, said in a statement. “MDA’s comprehensive solutions provide the high-assurance, critical surveillance and intelligence capabilities in support of Canada’s front-line sailors and soldiers that allows decisions made with confidence.”

In addition, MDA, also announced it has signed a contract with an unnamed international customer for the provision of turnkey, unmanned aircraft system surveillance services. The contract includes options for additional years. MDA’s UAS service will use a fleet of Schiebel CAMCOPTER S-100 rotary-wing unmanned aircraft to provide surveillance information.  MDA will be responsible for all aspects of the service including acquisition of all the systems and required infrastructure, training, airworthiness, logistics, supply chain, maintenance and all flight operations, the firm noted.

Rheinmetall”s modular, flexible soldier system (RHEINMETALL)

The S-100 aircraft is a vertical takeoff and landing UAS, which does not require a prepared area or supporting launch or recovery equipment. It operates day and night and is a very capable platform for a wide range of different surveillance payloads to meet a broad set of mission requirements.

MDA’s UAS service will equip the S-100 fleet with L3 WESCAM MX-10 EO/IR payloads. The MX-10 is a high-performance, multi-sensor multi-spectral imaging system for tactical surveillance missions.  It carries multiple sensors including both high-definition day modes and night infrared modes.  The MX-10 is currently operational for twelve nations worldwide on the S-100.

Pratt & Whitney Canada has signed a 12-year Fleet Management Program agreement with Specialist Aviation Services for 24 PW210A engines powering 12 Leonardo AW169 helicopters.

The program has been specifically tailored to SAS’s needs and helps reduce operating costs and simplifies fleet operations management, according to Pratt and Whitney.

Operating primarily in the United Kingdom, SAS provides support to emergency services and other major organizations that rely on aircraft to support their operations. SAS is one of the fleet leaders on the AW169 program.

Colt Canada of Kitchener, Ont. is marketing its small arms products to Ukraine’s government which is expected to eventually re-equip its military with NATO-standard weaponry.

Such a contract could involve up to 100,000 rifles. Colt Canada official Alex Payne, said the firm had an “exploratory type meeting” in January in Ukraine with government officials. It is hoping to set up a demonstration of its small arms in Ukraine sometime in the summer.

Payne noted, however, that the process of selling small arms to Ukraine could take up to two years. The country still has to figure out its procurement and competitive process for any proposed acquisition. “We have as equal a chance as anybody but I think there’s a long process to go through in terms of them of finding the best weapon for the best price,” Payne explained.

In December the Liberal government made changes to Canada’s arms export rules to allow for the sale of machineguns and other small arms to Ukraine. That process was originally started under the Conservative government.

General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada announced it is a network partner of the southern Ontario-based Next Generation Manufacturing Canada Advanced Manufacturing Supercluster.

The Advanced Manufacturing Supercluster is part of the Liberal government’s Innovation Superclusters Initiative. “Advanced manufacturing is a key economic engine for South Western Ontario and as the second largest advance manufacturer in the region, and a leading Canadian exporter, General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada looks forward to collaboratively working with our Supercluster partners,” Danny Deep, vice president of General Dynamics Land Systems–Canada, said in a statement.

Rheinmetall has won the first request for proposals for preliminary studies relating to European Union defence research financed by the EU’s European Defence Union. Under a project known as “Generic Open Soldier Systems Reference Architecture,” or GOSSRA, the European Commission has put the Düsseldorf-based tech group in charge of a consortium consisting of partners from nine different EU member states. 
Under the GOSSRA project, studies will be conducted into developing an open reference architecture as the basis of EU-wide standardized soldier systems. This includes electronics, voice and data communication, software solutions, man-machine interfaces, sensors and effectors.

Rheinmetall makes the German Bundes-wehr’s IdZ-ES soldier system as well as the Canadian military’s Argus system.  

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

WO François Duchesneau, Search and Rescue Technician; BGen Sean Boyle, Deputy Commander 1 Canadian Air Division; Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence; Boris Burlot, CEO AirPro; LCol Curtis Wright, A/Wing Commander; and CWO Keith Sexstone, A/ Wing CWO at the official groundbreaking at CFB Comox. (cnw group, airbus defence and space)

(Volume 25-02)

By David Pugliese

Airbus officially broke ground January 25 on a new state-of-the-art training centre for future C295 aircraft crews and technicians at CFB Comox. The centre is part of the fixed-wing search and rescue (FWSAR) contract awarded to Airbus. The training centre will prepare aircrew and maintenance personnel to operate Canada’s new 16 C295s and will house a full flight simulator, a range of procedures trainers, maintenance training devices, and classroom space, according to the company.

Montreal-based CAE is leading the design and building of the centre under a contract managed by AirPro, a joint venture between Airbus and PAL Aerospace of St John’s, Newfoundland, which was created to provide long-term FWSAR in-service support. CFB Comox will serve as the main training centre for C295 crews, with Airbus operating the facility over the 20-year life of the steady-state contract supported by CAE.

Simon Jacques, head of Airbus Defence and Space in Canada, said in a statement, “Just more than a year into the program we are on schedule and making excellent progress towards the entry into service of the C295, backed by a robust support infrastructure that will serve Canada well for the decades to come.

“Search and rescue is a highly challenging mission with little room for error,” continued Jacques. “We are confident that this superb facility at 19 Wing Comox will provide current and future Royal Canadian Air Force personnel with the skills and knowledge they need to perform their role to the highest standards.”

Canada will receive the first C295 in late 2019, with remaining aircraft being delivered over the following three years. In addition to training services provided by CAE, Canada’s C295s are powered by engines made by Pratt & Whitney Canada and have electro-optical sensors from L3 Wescam.

In other news, Brazil has ordered an additional Airbus C295 search and rescue aircraft that will eventually take to 15 the number of C295s in service with the Brazilian air force. The latest order constitutes the firming of an option included in an earlier contract in 2014.

L3 WESCAM announced at the Singapore air show that it has created smarter, more technologically advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems by incorporating high-performing imaging and processing technologies into its MX-Series product line. These new technologies will enable MX operators to conduct missions with enhanced image processing and greater visual capabilities, the firm noted in its news release.

Advancements to L3’s MX image processing technologies include WESCAM’s embedded Advanced Video Engine (WAVE) and a newly embedded graphics processing unit (GPU). L3 WESCAM’s new Automated Video Tracker (AVT) and embedded Moving Target Indicator (MTI) technologies are supported by this new architecture and provide automatic target acquisition of multiple targets with significantly improved target lock performance in challenging mission scenarios.

Raytheon Canada has received a $704 million contract to maintain and upgrade the Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) operated by the Royal Canadian Navy. The contract covers 21 such systems and will be valid until late 2037.

The rapid-fire, radar-guided gun system provides the most effective naval self-defence system available against close-in threats such as missiles, small ships, and aircraft, Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan said in announcing the contract.

The contract will update all 21 Phalanx CIWS and provide engineering services, project management, support and disposal services, as well as the procurement of spares and test equipment, according to Canada’s Department of National Defence.

A number of the upgrades will centre on improvements to the gun’s radar system, a Department of National Defence official said.

Rosemary Chapdelaine, the vice president and general manager for Lockheed Martin Canada, has moved on after five years in that job. She has been appointed as the general manager of the Lockheed Martin Baltimore, Maryland, production facility where she will oversee the company’s Controls, Launchers and Weapons System (CLAWS) division. During her tenure at Lockheed Martin Canada, she was instrumental in guiding efforts in winning the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships Combat and Surveillance Systems Integrator contract, submitting the Canadian Surface Combatant bid and expanding the international export base in countries including Chile and New Zealand, the firm noted.

In the meantime, Gary Fudge will be fulfilling the role of acting vice president and general manager for Lockheed Martin Canada. He brings widespread experience to the position and has been with the company for more than 25 years. Currently, Fudge is the capture executive for the Canadian Surface Combatant program and director of Canadian Naval Systems, which includes the Halifax-class modernization project and the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ship program.

MDA, a Maxar Technologies company, announced that it has been awarded a contract by Public Service Procurement Canada (PSPC), on behalf of Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) under the Space Operations program within the Joint Force Development portfolio, to develop a threat detection and early warning system to provide protection for Canadian space-based assets. The contract is for the study, concepts, and research and development phases, which could lead to MDA pursuing subsequent phases of technology demonstration and technology pilot.

Satellites support a wide variety of applications like telecommunications and remote sensing, which provide on-going, critical services to individual Canadians, businesses and government agencies. Canada has invested billions of dollars to create these services, which have become essential for Canadian society. Disruption or loss of these services would impact the ability of Canada to respond to emergency situations and to meet commitments to its global allies and would have widespread negative impacts on day-to-day life.

The contract includes the work required for the development of the Threat Detection and Early Warning System (TDEWS) up to a proof-of-concept stage. The TDEWS will incorporate technologies and systems capable of providing automated, reliable early warning of potential in-orbit threats against operational Canadian satellites. The goal is to identify credible threats against space assets to generate operationally relevant intelligence and enable prompt mitigation actions.

Cascade Aerospace Inc. announced it has been awarded a contract for the avionics modernization of one Fuerza Aérea Mexicana (FAM) L-100 (C-130) Hercules aircraft. This contract follows on the recent delivery of two modernized C-130K Hercules aircraft delivered to the FAM and fitted with advanced digital avionics from Rockwell Collins, the company noted.

The upgrade of this aircraft will establish a common cockpit configuration for the entire FAM C-130 fleet. The modernization program includes the installation and integration of an advanced Rockwell Collins Flight2 digital avionics suite. In addition, Cascade will provide operational and technical training for Mexican air force personnel at the company’s facility and headquarters in Abbotsford, British Columbia.

The Canadian government notified Lumiant of Calgary that its application to the Build in Canada Innovation Program has been approved. This official pre-qualification sets the stage for the government to buy up to $1 million worth of Lumiant TitanMade armour tiles for testing by DRDC. TitanMade is a patent-pending titanium ceramic composite material that is ideally suited for ballistic armour applications where weight and thickness are of critical importance.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

The MV Asterix, Davie’s new naval replenishment unit (NRU) sails the Atlantic Ocean with HMCS Toronto and HMCS Montreal. The vessel is conducting a replenishment at sea off the coast of Halifax, Nova Scotia on January 17, 2018. (jeremy citone, chantier davie canada)

(Volume 25-01)

By David Pugliese

Canadian sailors have started to train on the Motor Vessel (MV) Asterix. The vessel, a commercial ship that had been converted to supply duties for the Royal Canadian Navy at the Davie shipyards in Lévis, Quebec, will be ready to support Canadian Forces operations starting in February 2018, according to the RCN. A crew provided by Federal Fleet Services will operate the 26,000-tonne Asterix, but navy personnel will be on board to handle maritime operations such as refueling warships at sea. The ship will provide fuel, ammunition and other supplies to warships at sea. It also has medical facilities and room for two helicopters.

Asterix left Quebec City on December 23, 2017 with a crew of 36 Canadian merchant sailors along with Davie personnel and industry contractors and arrived shortly after in Halifax. During the journey, they completed the testing of the ship’s propulsion and navigation systems as well as military systems, according to Davie officials.

The Royal Navy in the UK has successfully conducted the final First of Class firing trials of the new Sea Ceptor air defence system, completing the qualification firings of this new capability for the Royal Navy, according to the firm MBDA, a European developer and manufacturer of missiles. Following on from the first round of trials this summer, the second set of trials from HMS Argyll saw the system tested against more complex scenarios, including rapidly engaging multiple simultaneous threats.

With HMS Argyll having completed development testing of the Sea Ceptor, the weapon system is now being rolled out to the Royal Navy’s other Type 23 frigates.

Leonardo DRS, Inc. announced that its Canadian subsidiary, DRS Technologies Canada, located in Kanata, Ontario, has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Navy to provide four additional Integrated Voice Communications Systems (IVCS) for their Aegis cruisers and destroyers. The award is part of the U.S. Navy’s larger IVCS contract.

The IVCS, also known as the Shipboard Integrated Communications System, or SHINCOM, is the latest generation shipboard communications switch technology which provides red/black secure tactical communications for navy operators, according to Leonardo. The computer-controlled telephone system connects to a ship’s announcing system, shore telephone lines, radio communications and certain battle sound-powered telephone circuits. It also has programmable features ranging from assigning priorities to calls to recording communications in a manner compliant with marine safety standards.

“We are delighted to again be tapped to provide these advanced systems for secure, reliable communications to enhance the mission of these important U.S. Navy ships,” Martin Munro, Vice President and General Manager, DRS Technologies Canada Ltd., said in a statement. “This brings the total number of systems ordered up to 16 out of a possible 30 under our existing contract. It also underscores the great confidence the United States Navy has in the DRS system to provide vital communications management to its fleet of major surface combatants.”

L3 Technologies said it has established International Boards dedicated to supporting and growing L3’s military and commercial business in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. These organizations will oversee the development of and promote strategic initiatives in their respective regions that advance L3’s competitive position and growth opportunities in the global marketplace, the firm noted.

L3 Technologies Canada Group Inc. will be led by its new Chair, Richard Foster, and will focus on expanding L3’s customer base across a diverse product line, which includes innovative electro-optical/infra-red equipment and maintenance, repair and overhaul and in-service support for the Royal Canadian Air Force, as well as integrating communication and platform management systems for a broad range of naval vessels. Additionally, L3 is a key supplier in support of the Canadian Surface Combatant initiative.

On December 8, 2017, Seaspan Shipyards launched the first large vessel to be designed and built under the Canadian government’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. OFSV1 is the first of three Offshore Fisheries Science Vessels (OFSVs) to be built by Seaspan. OFSV1 is a 63-metre Canadian Coast Guard fisheries research vessel. The ship will be used to gain a better understanding of the health of fish stocks and their ocean environment. Considerable progress is being made on building the remaining two OFSV ships.

Seaspan will also build the Joint Support Ships and Polar-class icebreaker under the shipbuilding strategy. “Seaspan Shipyards is proud to be building ships in Canada for the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Navy,” Brian Carter, President & CEO – Seaspan Shipyards, said in a statement December 8, 2017. “Today’s event is an exciting occasion for not only our company and employees, but Canada’s broader shipbuilding and marine industries; it is a chance to celebrate this shared achievement and acknowledge the long-term partnership that exists between Canada and Seaspan to build non-combat vessels in British Columbia.”

MDA, a business unit of Maxar Technologies (formerly MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.), announced that it signed a contract valued at approximately $15 million with the NATO Communications and Information Agency. MDA will build a new system to support NATO’s maritime command and control operations under Project TRITON based on a modern software architecture and technology, according to the firm. This capability will be provided on both fixed and deployable systems. MDA will also provide NATO with a stand-alone command and control visualization capability which is planned to become the standardized map and object visualization for all NATO information technology systems, the company added.

In other news, Maxar Technologies announced the appointment of Mike Greenley to serve as Group President of MDA. Reporting to the CEO of Maxar, Greenley assumes responsibility for taking MDA to the next level of growth and profitability, according to the company. His responsibilities will include all of the MDA lines of business and its 1,900 employees. Primary locations include Surveillance and Intelligence in Richmond, BC, Ottawa, and Halifax, NS; Robotics and Automation in Brampton, Ontario; and Satellite Subsystems, in Montreal, Quebec. The appointment is effective from January 15, 2018.

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced that L-3 Technologies Inc. of Arlington, Texas, is being awarded a $10.5 million (US) contract that provides for a software upgrade and integration of the CF-18 operational flight program. Half of the work will be performed at Arlington, Texas with the rest done at CFB Cold Lake, Alberta and CFB Bagotville, Quebec. The work is expected to be completed in November 2021.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

Naval Group has delivered a brand new visual defence simulator (Simdav) to the French Navy in Brest. The new systems will allow the crews of the French Naval Action Force to train under realistic conditions. (naval defence)

(Volume 24-12)

By David Pugliese

NovAtel of Calgary recently announced that its GPS Anti-Jam Technology or GAJT has been selected for the United Kingdom’s Type 26 frigates to meet a requirement as part of a protected navigation system. Eight of the ships are being built for the Royal Navy by BAE.

GAJT protects GPS-based navigation and precise timing receivers from intentional jamming and accidental interference, ensuring that the satellite signals necessary to compute position and time are always available, NovAtel noted in a news release. It is a commercial off-the-shelf product, and comes in versions suitable for land, sea, fixed installations and smaller platforms such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

There is no need to replace GPS receivers already installed, as GAJT works with civil and military receivers including SAASM and M-Code. The selection of GAJT for the Type 26 frigates is the result of cooperation between Drumgrange, with its proven track record for rapid realization of demanding defence design tasks, and Forsberg Services, an established navigation systems company and NovAtel dealer whose high-quality manufacturing was instrumental to the project, Peter Soar, Business Development Manager, Military and Defence of NovAtel said in a statement. He added that, “GAJT is in use operationally and has been shipped to 16 allied nations around the globe. We are grateful for the rigorous technology selection process conducted which led to this choice.”

Naval Group has delivered a brand new visual defence simulator (Simdav) to the French Navy in Brest. It had delivered a similar system to the French Navy at Toulon at the end of 2016. Both deliveries form part of the five-year modernization and through-life support contract awarded by the DGA (the French armament procurement agency) in December 2014. The new systems will allow the crews of the French Naval Action Force (and the grouping of naval infantry and maritime gendarmes) to train under realistic conditions.

QinetiQ Target Systems (QTS) has introduced a new service to the Royal Canadian Navy by emulating the threat posed to large naval vessels by small multi-rotor drones.

A live demonstration was carried out in early November from a Halifax-class frigate under the $8.5-million Unmanned Targets Repair, Overhaul and Engineering contract that was awarded to QTS in 2015.

QTS flew its Snyper multi-rotor target alongside Lockheed Martin’s Indago quadcopter UAV using QinetiQ’s Universal Target Control Station (UTCS), which facilitates the operation of multiple unmanned systems from a single command centre. 

The RCN has operated fixed-wing aerial targets and marine surface targets using QinetiQ’s UTCS for more than 20 years, but the introduction of rotary-wing targets is a first for the service, according to the company.

Rockwell Collins has been selected by the U.S. Navy to provide an upgrade to the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Integrated Training System (HITS, pictured here).

“Commercially available technologies, like off-the-shelf drones, are becoming more advanced and more accessible to those who wish to use them to cause harm,” Peter Longstaff, Managing Director, QTS, said in a statement. “QinetiQ simulates these new and emerging threats to help the armed forces understand how to protect their people and assets.”

He said this is part of the firm’s global strategy to modernize test and evaluation by introducing innovative and advanced capabilities that help nations maintain their advantage over potential adversaries.

“The information and results obtained during the demonstration are vital for the RCN’s development of remotely piloted systems used at sea, and the evaluation of ships’ critical defence systems,” added Simon Nadeau, DNR-2 Unmanned Systems Section Head Commander, RCN. “We are very pleased with the support that QinetiQ Target Systems provided to us during this demonstration.”

The Snyper target is one of several QinetiQ technologies designed to help customers tackle threats from small unmanned aircraft, including the Obsidian detection system and a laser weapon currently in development by the Dragonfire consortium that will be capable of destroying drones mid-flight, the firm noted.

The Canadian Armed Forces has officially opened its new facility at 4 CDSB Petawawa to house the base’s fleet of Textron Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicles (TAPVs).

The vehicles will be used for a variety of tasks on the battlefield, including reconnaissance and surveillance, security, command and control, and transporting cargo and personnel.

In total, 113 TAPVs will be operated at 4th Canadian Division Support Base (4 CDSB) Petawawa, according to the Canadian Armed Forces. Delivery of the TAPVs to 4 CDSB Petawawa began in August 2017. Fourteen TAPVs are currently located at the new facility, with the rest expected to be delivered in 2018, said Department of National Defence spokesman Daniel Le Bouthillier.

Discovery Air Defence Services Inc. recently announced that it has now flown its first fast jet training mission in support of the Australian Defence Force’s Fast Jet Trial contract. Two DA Defence upgraded Alpha Jets and four Air Affairs Learjets participated in air-to-air missions as Red Air aggressors near Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Williamtown, New South Wales, the company noted. The jets were participating in the RAAF 81 Wing workups for future exercises.

“This inaugural fast jet mission is a great milestone for everyone involved in our new Australian program,” Steven “Bunt” Nierlich, DA Defence Program Manager and a highly experienced former CF-18 pilot, said in a statement. “Discovery Air Defence and Air Affairs Australia are committed to delivering the world’s best adversary training to the Australian Defence Force.”

Rockwell Collins has been selected by the U.S. Navy to provide a new E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Tactics Trainer in support of the E-2D Hawkeye Integrated Training Systems (HITS) III program. The initial contract is valued at $34.5-million with a total of $85.9-million (all in U.S. dollars) on other E-2D training systems currently in service.

Irving Shipbuilding president Kevin McCoy says the firm is hoping to sell Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) to international customers. The firm is building at least five such vessels for the Royal Canadian Navy.

McCoy said there are nations that might want to take advantage of the firm’s “hot production line” and the company has already had some discussions with countries. He did not name the nations interested.

“This is a lengthy process,” he explained. “You have to shake a lot of trees.”

Irving will deliver its first AOPS to the Royal Canadian Navy in 2018.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

L3 WESCAM’s new mission rehearsal and simulation training solutions product line uses gaming technology. (l3 wescam)

(Volume 24-11)

By David Pugliese

L3 WESCAM introduced its new mission rehearsal and simulation training solutions product line at the Dubai Airshow, November 12–16. The company provided hands-on customer demonstrations of a fully networked solution, including air, ground, maritime and command stations, at the L3 Technologies exhibit. This highly scalable line of training products will enable MX-Series operators and crew members to train independently or as part of a virtual joint-force team using the latest gaming technology at an estimated 70 per cent cost savings over traditional training courses.

The Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC) named the operations team led by Benoit Beaudoin at Pratt & Whitney Canada as the winner of the 2017 James C. Floyd Award for Aerospace Achievement. The award is in recognition of the important contributions to Canadian aerospace success, both domestically and in the global marketplace.

Jim Quick, president of the AIAC, said the creation of the Mirabel Aerospace Centre and the Advanced Manufacturing Centres are significant achievements and have revolutionized manufacturing innovation and productivity, not only for Pratt & Whitney Canada but for their Canadian aerospace suppliers and partners.

“Mr. Beaudoin and his team have led the development of next-generation advanced manufacturing facilities and processes, making Canadian aerospace more competitive and creating new opportunities for Canadian aerospace employees,” Quick said in a statement.

Beaudoin, vice president of operations at Pratt & Whitney Canada, said innovation is at the heart of his firm. “What we accomplished at the Mirabel Aerospace Centre and the Advanced Manufacturing Centres was truly a collaborative effort, bearing the fingerprints of many members of the aerospace industry; all of whom embraced the challenge of creating a blueprint for the future of Canadian aerospace manufacturing,” he explained.

Established in 2009 in honour of the chief engineer on the Avro Arrow project, the AIAC’s James C. Floyd Award for aerospace achievement is an annual award that honours exceptional contributions to the Canadian aerospace sector.

Viking Air Limited of Victoria, B.C., has sold its second Series 400 Twin Otter to the government of Panama for use by its Servicio Nacional Aeronaval (SENAN) Air Group based in Cocoli, Panama. The aircraft is scheduled for delivery in December.

SENAN is the organization within Panama’s national forces that is responsible for public security through use of naval and air means.

The Viking Series 400 will be equipped with standard wheel gear for its primary role as troop and cargo transport, and will also be configured for medical evacuation to support emergencies as needed, the company noted. The aircraft will be the second Twin Otter to be introduced to SENAN’s operational fleet, and will join the first Viking Series 400 aircraft delivered in December 2016.

Raytheon Missile Systems of Tucson, Arizona, could be providing the RCAF with new missiles. The cost of the purchase is $140-million (U.S.), according to the U.S. State Department which has advised Congress of the Foreign Military Sale.

The procurement includes 32 AIM-120D Advanced Medium-Range Air-to Air Missiles (AMRAAMs), 18 AMRAAM Captive Air Training Missiles (CATMs); four AMRAAM Non-Development Item – Airborne Instrumentation Unit (NDI-AIU); two AMRAAM Instrumented Test Vehicles; seven spare AMRAAM guidance units; and four spare AMRAAM control sections for use on their F/A-18 aircraft. Also included in the sale, according to the State Department, are containers; storage and preservation; transportation; aircrew and maintenance training; training aids and equipment, spares and repair parts; warranties; weapon system support and test equipment; publications and technical documentation; software development, integration, and support; system integration and testing; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support; and other related elements of logistics and program support.

The proposed sale is linked to the potential purchase by Canada of “interim” Super Hornets from Boeing.

However, Department of National Defence sources say the missiles can also be used on the CF-18s, which currently are outfitted with another version of the weapons.

“With regards to the AIM-120s, the RCAF currently employ AIM-120 C-5 as part of its medium-range air-to-air missile inventory,” DND spokesman Dan Le Bouthillier added. “The variant mentioned in the Congressional Notice is the variant of the AIM-120 missile currently scheduled to be in production and is designed to be adaptable to multi-platform.‎ If procured, the AIM-120D would be used to best suit the mission‎ requirement.”

Seaspan Corporation has announced that Bing Chen will be joining the company as its chief executive officer and will be appointed to the board of directors in January 2018. Gerry Wang retired as CEO and director of Seaspan in November. Peter Curtis, executive vice president and chief operating officer, is also serving as Seaspan’s interim CEO until Chen’s arrival, after which he will continue in his current role. Over his 25-year career Chen has held executive positions in China, Europe and the United States.

The Royal Canadian Navy will use OSI Maritime’s ECPINS Warship 6.2 on all ships and submarines. ECPINS is a warship electronic chart display and information system, with military capabilities well beyond NATO WECDIS STANAG 4564, according to OSI, a firm headquartered in Burnaby, B.C.

Lockheed Martin and Navantia have signed a renewed memorandum of agreement to collaborate to explore mutually beneficial new business opportunities in the areas of surface ships and naval combat systems.

The two firms have collaborated for 20 years over the provision of the Aegis combat system for the Spanish Navy’s F-100 frigates. Between 2000 and 2010, Lockheed Martin and Navantia delivered four F-100 frigates to the Spanish Navy, and in 2013 a fifth and final was commissioned.

In 2000, the Royal Norwegian Navy selected Navantia to develop and build five Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates, the last one of which launched in 2009. After the Norwegian frigates, the Australian Hobart class was designed, based on the F-100 with an updated Aegis combat system configuration, the first of which was delivered to the Royal Australian Navy in September. Currently, 11 frigates developed by Navantia and Lockheed Martin sail around the globe.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

NovAtel’s GPS Anti-Jam Technology (GAJT) is a retrofittable antenna system that nulls jamming signals to ensure satellite signals required will be available. (novatel)

(Volume 24-10)

By David Pugliese

Counter-jamming systems from NovAtel Inc. of Calgary have been selected by the federal government for Canadian Army light armoured vehicles (LAVs).

The federal government has published an Advance Contract Award Notice, which is to inform other suppliers that the NovAtel equipment will be purchased unless there are any firms that can make the same systems.

The Department of National Defence has an initial requirement to buy 52 global positioning system (GPS) anti-jam antennas. The equipment will be outfitted on the LAV Observation Post Vehicle. The initial requirement includes the associated software.

“The GPS Anti-Jam Antenna must be capable of simultaneously nulling up to 6 individual jamming sources and be compatible with the Canadian Army’s inventory of 12,000 Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR) and LAV OPVs,” the government noted. Up to 50 additional GPS anti-jam antennas could be purchased in the future, it added.

The LAV Observation Post vehicle is expected to operate in forward positions, a situation that would “increase the likelihood that it will come under electronic attack (including GPS jamming) from opposing forces. Lack of anti-jam capability also makes GPS receivers more susceptible to potentially more dangerous spoofing attacks.”

Airbus Defence and Space has received an order for five Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transports (MRTT) from Europe’s organization for the management of cooperative armament programmes, OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation). The order is on behalf of NATO Support & Procurement Agency (NSPA) and funded by Germany and Norway. 

It follows the announcement on June 29 of a Memorandum of Understanding under which the two nations would join Netherlands and Luxembourg in the European/NATO Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF) program.

A contract amendment signed at the OCCAR headquarters in Bonn, Germany adds five aircraft to the two previously ordered by Netherlands and Luxembourg and includes four additional options to enable other nations to join the grouping. It also includes two years of initial support.

The program is funded by the four nations who will have the exclusive right to operate these NATO-owned aircraft in a pooling arrangement. The aircraft will be configured for in-flight refuelling, the transport of passengers and cargo, and medical evacuation flights. 

The first two aircraft have already been ordered to be delivered from Airbus Defence and Space’s tanker conversion line at Getafe, near Madrid, and all seven are expected to be handed over between 2020 and 2022.

More than 3,300 people attended Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards’ open house in early October, where they got a first glimpse of the Sir John Franklin, the Canadian Coast Guard’s first Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel (OFSV).
(heath moffatt, seaspan)

Rheinmetall will soon be modernizing part of the Bundeswehr’s fleet of Leopard main battle tanks (MBTs), implementing a comprehensive array of upgrade measures, the company has announced.

The upgrade program will bring 104 Leopard 2 tanks up to state-of-the-art design status. The first serially retrofitted Leopard 2 A7V tanks will reach the German Army starting in 2020.
Rheinmetall will be transforming a total of 68 Leopard 2A4, 16 Leopard 2A6 and 20 Leopard 2A7 main battle tanks, bringing them up to A7V standard, the firm noted.

In addition, Rheinmetall will be supplying the new L55A1 gun for the 68 Leopard 2A4 MBTs to be modernized. These tanks will therefore be able to fire the latest generation of armour-piercing ammunition in the upper pressure zone. All 104 Leopard 2A7V tanks will be capable of using Rheinmetall’s new programmable DM11 multipurpose round.

More than 3,300 people attended Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards’ open house in early October. During the event, attendees received an up-close look at what Seaspan is calling the “most modern facility of its kind in North America.” They also saw the unveiling of the first vessel to be designed and built under the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) — the Canadian Coast Guard’s first Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel (OFSV), the Sir John Franklin.

 “Today is a historic day for the women and men of Seaspan Shipyards as we deliver on our commitments to the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Navy,” Brian Carter, President & CEO – Seaspan Shipyards, told the audience. “In the unveiling of the first Offshore Fisheries Science Vessel, we are affirming our long-term commitment to Canada and our leading role in the growth of a West Coast centre of excellence in shipbuilding and ship repair.”

Saab intends to establish a manufacturing and production centre in the U.S. to handle the Swedish company’s work on the Boeing-Saab T-X trainer aircraft.

Both firms have set a goal of having more than 90 per cent of the T-X design built in the U.S., said Boeing Defence President Leanne Caret and Saab AB President and CEO Haken Buskhe. “Our T-X is designed and purpose-built for the U.S. Air Force training program, for today and for the future. Therefore, the aircraft, including our workshare, should also be manufactured here in the United States,” Buskhe recently told an audience at the U.S. Air Force Association’s annual conference.

QinetiQ Target Systems has received a new order from the Royal Canadian Navy to deliver more than 40 units of Hammerhead unmanned surface vehicle (USV) targets and several payloads. The latest $4.7-million order is part of an existing $35-million framework contract with the Department of National Defence, the firm noted.

The five-year contract was originally awarded in May last year and includes the supply of surface and aerial target systems. Hammerhead targets are equipped with a large variety of threat-emulating payloads and allow ship operators to train against piracy threats by simulating fast inshore attack craft. The targets can be controlled in large swarms in order to adequately replicate a coordinated attack by multiple naval ships.

“The Hammerhead is continually proving to be a cost-effective and high-performing surface target for the RCN and several other customers around the world,” QinetiQ Target Systems Managing Director Peter Longstaff said in a statement.

Héroux-Devtek Inc. has announced an agreement to acquire Compañia Española de Sistemas Aeronauticos, S.A. (“CESA”), a subsidiary of Airbus. The deal is worth $205-million.

“The acquisition of CESA marks a pivotal moment in Héroux-Devtek’s international expansion,” Gilles Labbé, President and Chief Executive Officer of Héroux-Devtek, said in a statement. “This transaction will allow us to increase our presence with Airbus, hence giving us better access to one of the largest aircraft manufacturers in the world.”

Headquartered in Madrid, Spain, CESA is a leading European provider of fluid mechanical and electromechanical systems for the aerospace industry. Its main product lines include landing gear, actuation and hydraulic systems.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

The Royal Navy successfully conducted the first test firing of the new Sea Ceptor air defence system from Type 23 frigate HMS Argyll whilst off the coast of Scotland. (mbda)

(Volume 24-09)

By David Pugliese

HMS Argyll successfully conducted the first firings of the Sea Ceptor system, an event being heralded as a major milestone for the Royal Navy (RN) as it brings its upgraded Type 23 frigates back into service.

The Sea Ceptor system, which utilizes MBDA’s next-generation Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM), is being fitted to replace the Sea Wolf weapon system on the Type 23 frigates as part of their life-extension program, MBDA noted. Sea Ceptor will provide improved protection for the RN against anti-ship cruise missiles, aircraft and other highly sophisticated threats.

HMS Argyll, commissioned in 1991, is the first Type 23 to undergo the life-extension program, and she will conduct further firing trials of the Sea Ceptor system before returning to front-line service, the company added in a news release.

Designed and manufactured by MBDA in the UK, Sea Ceptor will also protect the RN’s future Type 26 frigates, and the Land Ceptor will replace the Rapier in British Army service.

Dave Armstrong, Executive Group Director Sales and Business Development and Managing Director UK at MBDA, said in a statement that, “Sea Ceptor is the most modern air defence system of its type in the world, and will provide a step-change in capability to the Royal Navy’s Type 23 frigates.”

Traditional air defence systems use semi-active radar guidance, meaning they rely on surface-based fire control radar to illuminate the missile’s target. By using an active radar seeker and datalink on the missile, CAMM does not require the dedicated fire control radar on which a semi-active system depends, MBDA explained. This not only removes cost and weight from the vessel, it makes integration simpler and means that Sea Ceptor can intercept more targets simultaneously, and across 360 degrees — something a semi-active system cannot do.

Kraken Sonar Systems Inc. has been awarded a contract valued at over $425,000 by Atlas Elektronik Canada. Kraken will supply and integrate its AquaPix Miniature Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Sonar and Real-Time SAS Signal Processor on the Atlas SeaCat autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV).

AquaPix is designed for operation on AUVs and towed platforms. The modular system uses the latest electronics, transducer arrays and signal processing software optimized for the demanding size, weight, power and cost constraints of unmanned maritime vehicles, according to the companies.

SeaCat is an approximately three metres in length and 280 kg (depending on configuration) mid-sized, modular, hybrid AUV that provides remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and AUV capabilities “as a truck” to the operating theatre.

Universal Switching Corporation of Burbank, California has been selected by General Dynamics Canada to support the Canadian military’s Mercury Global project. The Mercury Global project is the name given to Canada’s participation in the Wideband Global Satellite (WGS) constellation being built by Boeing. WGS will provide high-capacity, assured and secure satellite access for communications that are vital to the Canadian government and military.

Universal Switching Corporation says it has been selected to supply the critical data distribution for the satellite command and control systems.

Under the contract, General Dynamics Canada is responsible for the construction and installation of seven anchor stations across Canada. General Dynamics C4 Systems Satcom Technologies will manufacture the anchor station antennas, the firms noted.

Honeywell Aerospace in Cambridge, Ont., is laying off employees because of a downturn in the space and satellite industry. Honeywell is not providing any information on the numbers of employees being laid off. Sources, however, told 570 NEWS in Cambridge that over 140 of the 400 employees at the facility were let go.

The facility is the former COM DEV, which has been building satellite components and space equipment for almost 40 years. The Canadian company was purchased in 2016 by the U.S.-based Honeywell.

In a statement the firm said it was realigning its manufacturing and engineering workforces in the U.S. and Canada to “better match current market requirements.”

Department of National Defence employees ramped up their protest against the federal government’s decision to award a long-term maintenance contract to French defence company Thales.

Around 150 members of the Union of National Defence Employees (UNDE) blocked the road leading to the main entrance of CFB Esquimalt, B.C. for about an hour. They were protesting against the Liberal government’s recently announced a $5.2-billion deal to privatize maintenance of the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) and the Joint Support Ships (JSS).

Subsidiaries of Thales were awarded the contract.

UNDE says the deal is a risk since it could jeopardize national security and could mean a loss of jobs for public servants who now maintain government ships.

John MacLennan, who led the protest on his last day as UNDE president before his retirement, said the union expects the Liberals to try to contract out more federal jobs. He accused the Trudeau government of continuing the privatization agenda started by the previous Conservative government.

Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan has said no public service jobs will be lost because of the privatization of ship maintenance.

United Technologies is buying avionics and aircraft parts manufacturer Rockwell Collins in a deal considered one of the largest in aerospace history. The total sale will cost United Technologies $30-billion U.S.

What’s the reason behind the purchase?

The transaction creates an aircraft-parts giant better positioned to withstand the squeeze from plane makers Boeing and Airbus for pricing discounts and higher output, Bloomberg News reports. It pointed out that the “resulting company will boast a broad suite of products for commercial aircraft, from Rockwell Collins’s touchscreen cockpit displays to jet engines made by the Pratt & Whitney division of United Technologies.”

Pratt & Whitney makes the engine for the F-35, among other aircraft. “This acquisition adds tremendous capabilities to our aerospace businesses and strengthens our complementary offerings of technologically advanced aerospace systems,” UTC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Greg Hayes said in a statement. “Together, Rockwell Collins and UTC Aerospace Systems will enhance customer value in a rapidly evolving aerospace industry by making aircraft more intelligent and more connected.”

Collins Aerospace Systems will be the name of the new unit, according to United Technologies.

Marine Industrial Lighting Systems Ltd. of Mount Peal, NL, received a contract worth over $1-million to provide naval LED lighting. The new energy-efficient lighting is being tested by DND on Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Toronto.

CSC Bidding update

Companies will submit their bids for the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) by early November, says a top defence procurement official.

Lisa Campbell, Assistant Deputy Minister for Defence and Marine Procurement at Public Services and Procurement Canada, said a final request for proposals (RFP) would be completed by early October and issued to the 12 pre-qualified firms. Companies will have one month after that to put together their bids and submit them.

Evaluation of the bids was originally expected to be finished by the end of 2017, but that has been delayed slightly, Campbell told Esprit de Corps. Instead, bids will be evaluated in early 2018 and the winner is expected to be determined later that year.

“It doesn’t change our target to start construction, which is still in the early 2020s,” Campbell said.

She noted that the procurement process, similar to the one used in the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) and Fixed Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) programs will also be employed for the surface combatants. “When (companies) first submit their bids, if we think there is information missing or they’re not compliant we’ll tell them and we’ll give them a chance to put it in,” Campbell explained. “It maximizes competition. It maximizes the chance for bidders to succeed.”

Six hundred questions from bidders have been answered.

Canada has pre-approved 12 firms to bid on various aspects of the program, which would see Irving Shipbuilding construct a fleet of new ships for the Royal Canadian Navy. The vessels will form the backbone of Canada’s future navy.

Fifteen ships will be built. The cost of the program is almost $62-billion, according to a study released in June by the Parliamentary Budget Officer.

That estimate includes costs resulting from development, production, spare parts, ammunition, training, government program management and upgrades to existing facilities. It does not include costs associated with the operation, maintenance and mid-life refurbishment of the ships, other than the spare parts that will be purchased when the ships are built, the Parliamentary Budget Officer noted.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

A USAF “Heritage Flight” at Abbotsford Air Show included (top to bottom) the F-16 Fighting Falcon, P-51 Mustang, F-35, and F-86 Sabre.

(Volume 24-8)

By David Pugliese

The Abbotsford International Air Show in British Columbia was a fitting backdrop for the ongoing rivalry between the Super Hornet and the F-35 in the quest to provide the Royal Canadian Air Force with a new fighter jet.

Lockheed Martin highlighted its offer to the Liberal government of the F-35 as an “interim” fighter aircraft for the RCAF. The air show featured one F-35 from the Royal Netherlands Air Force on static display. A United States Air Force F-35 flew in the “Heritage Flight” performance that also included the P-51, F-16 and F-86 Sabre.

In addition, the USAF displayed other F-35 elements, such as the sophisticated helmet used by the aircraft’s pilots.

Boeing’s Super Hornet also performed aerial displays at the show, which took place in Abbotsford, BC over the weekend of August 11–13. It was also a crowd pleaser on the ground, with large numbers of individuals standing in line to get a look into the aircraft’s cockpit.

Last year, the Liberal government announced a proposal to buy 18 interim fighter jets from Boeing to deal with a capability gap facing the RCAF’s fleet of fighter aircraft, the CF-18. But that multi-billion-dollar plan to acquire Super Hornet jets has been thrown into limbo after Boeing filed a trade complaint in the U.S. against Bombardier of Quebec.

The Liberal government broke off direct discussions with Boeing on the Super Hornet but they continue talks with the U.S. government on the acquisition of the jets.

 The F-35’s Helmet Mounted Display Systems provide pilots with all the information they need to complete their missions. Airspeed, heading, altitude, targeting information and warnings are projected on the helmet’s visor, rather than on a traditional display.  

Boeing officials weren’t talking to journalists, preferring to let the process continue and see what the end result will be. However, Boeing representatives have pointed out in the past that the issue with Bombardier is a separate one on the commercial front and should not be linked to its defence capabilities and offerings to Canada. They have also noted that Boeing has had a long history in Canada and contributes around $3-billion U.S. annually to the country’s economy through direct employment at its Winnipeg plant and other facilities, as well as purchase of equipment and services from Canadian firms. In total, Boeing supports more than 17,000 jobs across Canada.

Lockheed Martin has seen opportunity in the dispute to officially offer its F-35 as an interim aircraft to supplement the RCAF’s aging CF-18 jets. Lockheed has long contended the F-35 is more cost effective and more advanced than the Super Hornet.

Lockheed Martin says its F-35 fighter aircraft fleet recently exceeded 100,000 flight hours while the F-35 Integrated Test Force teams are completing the remaining requirements in the program’s System Development and Demonstration phase.

Jack Crisler, vice president of F-35 business development, told Esprit de Corps that the offer of the F-35 as an interim fighter jet was made on June 2. Canada could acquire the jets for $80-million U.S. to $85-million U.S. each, he noted. “We left it up to them to determine,” Crisler said when asked how many jets Lockheed Martin offered to Canada.

Asked about the Lockheed Martin offer, Matthew Luloff, a spokesman with Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan’s office, responded that the federal government continues “to explore many options to provide an interim solution to supplement the CF-18s until the permanent replacement is fully operational.”

“We have not yet made a decision,” he added in an email. “Discussions must demonstrate that the interim fleet is appropriately capable and can be obtained at a cost, schedule, and economic value that are acceptable to Canadians.”

Meanwhile, at the Aerospace, Defence and Security Expo, also held at Abbotsford, Sajjan announced that he expects a request for proposals for the full competition for a jet to replace the CF-18 fleet to be issued next spring. That competition is separate from the interim jet purchase.

The Brazilian Air Force is in the process of receiving the C-295 aircraft from Airbus Defence and Space. This aircraft has a similar configuration to the C-295W that will replace the RCAF’s six CC-115 Buffalos and legacy CC-130H Hercules, the RCAF pointed out in a news release.

Construction began in June for Canada’s C-295W aircraft and first delivery is expected in late 2019, according to the RCAF.

The C-295 crew visiting Canada included members of the Brazilian Air Force undergoing familiarization training, Airbus pilots who are supporting their training, and select members of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue Aircraft Replacement Project Management Office.

The visit, organized in part by Airbus Defence and Space, allowed members of the RCAF’s search and rescue (SAR) teams, including aircrew and maintenance technicians, the chance to see and ask questions about the new aircraft. There was no time, however, to visit 14 Wing Greenwood. Airbus staff was on hand to provide personnel with an update on the progress of the procurement of the C-295W for use in the CAF.

Visitors at the Abbotsford Air Show lined up to get a close-up view of the inside of a USAF Boeing Super Hornet cockpit.
(photos courtesy of mark pugliese & david pugliese)

Vancouver Shipyards recently announced the appointment of Jim Corr as Vice President – Planning & Estimating in June 2017 after joining the yard in January 2017 as a consultant. In his new role, Corr will be responsible for providing leadership and direction on network planning, detail planning and production control, as well as estimating for new ship construction.

He has over 37 years’ experience in the shipbuilding industry. He joined the company from General Dynamics BIW, where he worked on the U.S. Navy’s DDG-1000 and DDG-51 destroyer programs.

The former HMCS Preserver was transported to Marine Recycling Corporation’s facility in Sydport Industrial Park, Nova Scotia, on August 2 to be dismantled. On June 8, a contract valued at $12.6-million was awarded to Marine Recycling Corporation from Port Colbourne, Ontario, for the disposal of both the Royal Canadian Navy’s former HMCS Preserver and Canadian Forces Auxiliary Vessel Quest.

The Canadian government will purchase 1,148 new C6A1 FLEX general purpose machine guns from Colt Canada.

The current C6 machine guns were procured over 30 years ago. Some have been removed from service due to wear and tear and others are reaching the end of their service life, according to the Canadian military.

The new C6A1 FLEX (flexible) is designed to be carried by soldiers or attached to vehicles such as the new Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle (TAPV) produced by Textron. The new machine gun will feature a durable polymer butt stock instead of the current wooden style, according to the Canadian Forces. Additionally, soldiers will be able to attach pointing devices and optical sighting systems to the new weapon to help increase their operational effectiveness.

First deliveries of the new C6 are anticipated for September 2018 with final deliveries anticipated for June 2019. The value of the contract is $32.1-million (taxes included).

The procurement includes related equipment such as a cleaning and repair kit, spare parts, and sling to carry the weapon.

L-3 MAS, a subsidiary of L3 Technologies, has issued an order for CAE to continue providing a range of in-service support solutions for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CF-18 aircraft. CAE will provide avionics software upgrades, integrated logistics support and data management services. L-3 MAS has been the prime contractor on the CF-18 in-service support program since 1986, and CAE has been performing systems engineering support services for the CF-18 fleet for over 30 years.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who and What's What In The Defence Sector

The Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft can be configured for military air transport in addition to providing air-to-air refuelling capabilities. (s. ramadier, airbus)

(Volume 24-7)

By David Pugliese

Germany and Norway officially joined the European/NATO program to acquire Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft along with Netherlands and Luxembourg. The two nations committed to participating in the project through the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at NATO headquarters.

Known as the Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF), the program was initiated by the European Defence Agency (EDA) in 2012, according to Airbus.

The program is funded by the four nations who will have the exclusive right to use these NATO–owned aircraft, which will operate in a pooling arrangement, the firm noted in a news release.

The aircraft will be configured for in-flight refuelling, transporting passengers and cargo, and medical evacuation flights. The first two aircraft have already been ordered. They will be delivered in 2020 from Airbus Defence and Space’s tanker conversion line at Getafe, near Madrid. Five additional aircraft will now be ordered, and that order will include options for up to four further aircraft, Airbus added.

The U.S. and Canada are negotiating an agreement for the continued provision of maintenance and support services for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s C-17 fleet. That deal will be worth around $195-million U.S. Boeing, which built the C-17 transport aircraft, currently helps maintain those planes for the RCAF. That agreement expires on September 20, according to Public Services and Procurement Canada.

Canada purchases C-17 maintenance and support from the U.S. government through the Foreign Military Sale system. According to the U.S. government, the work will be done at Boeing’s facilities at Long Beach, Calif., and in St. Louis, Missouri. Lockheed Martin will also be involved.

In addition, the U.S. government noted that there are currently 13 employees from Boeing now in Canada who provide C-17 technical support on a regular basis.

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles has entered a framework agreement with the Bundeswehr to supply over 2,200 state-of-the-art trucks. In embarking on this project, Rheinmetall says it will play a leading role in modernizing the German military’s fleet of thousands of logistic vehicles. The agreement is structured to run seven years and the framework contract covers a total of 2,271 HX2 family vehicles. Delivery of the first lot will take place during the 2018–2021 time frame, according to Rheinmetall.

Naval Group (formerly DCNS) reports that it has successfully achieved a European first: the coordinated deployment of three types of drones: underwater, airborne and surface. The deployment was made possible because of the DCNS I4 drones mission system.

The RCAF’s fleet of 14 Cormorant search and rescue helicopters will undergo a modernization program, headed by Leonardo Helicopters and IMP Aerospace.

During the June demonstration, it was possible to detect a suspect vessel, which was identified and neutralized in less than 20 minutes, according to Naval Group.

The drones included:

The D19, an underwater drone, for the detection phase.

The IT180 UAV, a rotary-wing drone, for the identification phase.

REMORINA, a naval drone, for the final step of interception and neutralization.

Kraken Sonar Systems Inc. has signed a teaming agreement with ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GmbH.

The objective of the agreement is to combine the expertise and technology of both companies to provide the Royal Canadian Navy with the optimal solution for its Remote Mine Disposal System (RMDS). In addition to the RMDS program, Kraken has teamed with ATLAS to provide military-grade KATFISH towed sonar systems to a leading Asian navy as part of a major mine-countermeasures procurement program, the firm added in a news release.

ATLAS and Kraken officials say they are looking forward to jointly pursuing further opportunities for both the Canadian and global naval defence market.

Dr. Jens Bodo Koch, CEO of ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GmbH, stated: “We are pleased to announce our cooperation with Kraken. By working together both companies can use their experience in sonar systems and maritime technology to meet customers’ demands throughout the international maritime defence market. Our teaming is in alignment with our strategy to embrace new technologies, rapidly deploy smart products, improve platform efficiency and offer cost-effective solutions for our customers.”

Karl Kenny, Kraken’s President and CEO, said, “ATLAS represents the ideal partner for us in the military market. By offering advanced sensor solutions we expect that underwater vehicles will become more affordable and reliable, smarter and more closely aligned with operator needs.”

Carleton University conferred an honorary Doctor of Engineering on Lockheed Martin Canada’s Rosemary Chapdelaine in recognition of her career as an award-winning mechanical engineer and talented international administrative leader. Chapdelaine began her career as a mechanical engineer at IBM’s Federal Systems Division. She currently serves as vice-president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Canada, where she leads a team of 600 employees working across the country. Her program portfolio is valued at over $1.5-billion and her customer base extends around the world, from Canada and the United States to the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Chile, according to Lockheed Martin Canada.

MBDA has developed what is calls NCES (Network-Centric Engagement Solutions). This new network-centric, ground-based air defence architecture is based on the latest real-time data exchange protocols, the firm noted in a news release.

The NCES architecture is suitable for a wide number of organizations, ranging from mobile batteries up to territorial defence systems. It can also easily integrate existing ground-based air defence systems, by means of a gateway converting the data normally exchanged by the battery with the ground-to-air defence tiers above or below it, MBDA pointed out.

Saab’s Gripen E, the next generation of that fighter jet, made its first flight on June 15. That is a major development for the plane. Deliveries are set for 2019.

Sweden and Brazil have purchased the Gripen E. Sixty E models will be acquired by Sweden’s air force, while Brazil is buying 36 jets, including eight of the twin-seat F versions.

Leonardo Helicopters and IMP Aerospace & Defence have added more Canadian industrial partners to its team that plans to pursue the contract to modernize the RCAF’s fleet of Cormorant search and rescue helicopters. CAE, GE Canada and Rockwell Collins in Canada have joined the team. Other key Canadian companies will also be announced in the near future.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

The Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft can be configured for military air transport in addition to providing air-to-air refuelling capabilities. (s. ramadier, airbus)

(Volume 24-7)

By David Pugliese

Germany and Norway officially joined the European/NATO program to acquire Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft along with Netherlands and Luxembourg. The two nations committed to participating in the project through the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at NATO headquarters.

Known as the Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF), the program was initiated by the European Defence Agency (EDA) in 2012, according to Airbus.

The program is funded by the four nations who will have the exclusive right to use these NATO–owned aircraft, which will operate in a pooling arrangement, the firm noted in a news release.

The aircraft will be configured for in-flight refuelling, transporting passengers and cargo, and medical evacuation flights. The first two aircraft have already been ordered. They will be delivered in 2020 from Airbus Defence and Space’s tanker conversion line at Getafe, near Madrid. Five additional aircraft will now be ordered, and that order will include options for up to four further aircraft, Airbus added.

The U.S. and Canada are negotiating an agreement for the continued provision of maintenance and support services for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s C-17 fleet. That deal will be worth around $195-million U.S. Boeing, which built the C-17 transport aircraft, currently helps maintain those planes for the RCAF. That agreement expires on September 20, according to Public Services and Procurement Canada.

Canada purchases C-17 maintenance and support from the U.S. government through the Foreign Military Sale system. According to the U.S. government, the work will be done at Boeing’s facilities at Long Beach, Calif., and in St. Louis, Missouri. Lockheed Martin will also be involved.

In addition, the U.S. government noted that there are currently 13 employees from Boeing now in Canada who provide C-17 technical support on a regular basis.

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles has entered a framework agreement with the Bundeswehr to supply over 2,200 state-of-the-art trucks. In embarking on this project, Rheinmetall says it will play a leading role in modernizing the German military’s fleet of thousands of logistic vehicles. The agreement is structured to run seven years and the framework contract covers a total of 2,271 HX2 family vehicles. Delivery of the first lot will take place during the 2018–2021 time frame, according to Rheinmetall.

Naval Group (formerly DCNS) reports that it has successfully achieved a European first: the coordinated deployment of three types of drones: underwater, airborne and surface. The deployment was made possible because of the DCNS I4 drones mission system.

The RCAF’s fleet of 14 Cormorant search and rescue helicopters will undergo a modernization program, headed by Leonardo Helicopters and IMP Aerospace.

During the June demonstration, it was possible to detect a suspect vessel, which was identified and neutralized in less than 20 minutes, according to Naval Group.

The drones included:

The D19, an underwater drone, for the detection phase.

The IT180 UAV, a rotary-wing drone, for the identification phase.

REMORINA, a naval drone, for the final step of interception and neutralization.

Kraken Sonar Systems Inc. has signed a teaming agreement with ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GmbH.

The objective of the agreement is to combine the expertise and technology of both companies to provide the Royal Canadian Navy with the optimal solution for its Remote Mine Disposal System (RMDS). In addition to the RMDS program, Kraken has teamed with ATLAS to provide military-grade KATFISH towed sonar systems to a leading Asian navy as part of a major mine-countermeasures procurement program, the firm added in a news release.

ATLAS and Kraken officials say they are looking forward to jointly pursuing further opportunities for both the Canadian and global naval defence market.

Dr. Jens Bodo Koch, CEO of ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GmbH, stated: “We are pleased to announce our cooperation with Kraken. By working together both companies can use their experience in sonar systems and maritime technology to meet customers’ demands throughout the international maritime defence market. Our teaming is in alignment with our strategy to embrace new technologies, rapidly deploy smart products, improve platform efficiency and offer cost-effective solutions for our customers.”

Karl Kenny, Kraken’s President and CEO, said, “ATLAS represents the ideal partner for us in the military market. By offering advanced sensor solutions we expect that underwater vehicles will become more affordable and reliable, smarter and more closely aligned with operator needs.”

Carleton University conferred an honorary Doctor of Engineering on Lockheed Martin Canada’s Rosemary Chapdelaine in recognition of her career as an award-winning mechanical engineer and talented international administrative leader. Chapdelaine began her career as a mechanical engineer at IBM’s Federal Systems Division. She currently serves as vice-president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Canada, where she leads a team of 600 employees working across the country. Her program portfolio is valued at over $1.5-billion and her customer base extends around the world, from Canada and the United States to the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Chile, according to Lockheed Martin Canada.

MBDA has developed what is calls NCES (Network-Centric Engagement Solutions). This new network-centric, ground-based air defence architecture is based on the latest real-time data exchange protocols, the firm noted in a news release.

The NCES architecture is suitable for a wide number of organizations, ranging from mobile batteries up to territorial defence systems. It can also easily integrate existing ground-based air defence systems, by means of a gateway converting the data normally exchanged by the battery with the ground-to-air defence tiers above or below it, MBDA pointed out.

Saab’s Gripen E, the next generation of that fighter jet, made its first flight on June 15. That is a major development for the plane. Deliveries are set for 2019.

Sweden and Brazil have purchased the Gripen E. Sixty E models will be acquired by Sweden’s air force, while Brazil is buying 36 jets, including eight of the twin-seat F versions.

Leonardo Helicopters and IMP Aerospace & Defence have added more Canadian industrial partners to its team that plans to pursue the contract to modernize the RCAF’s fleet of Cormorant search and rescue helicopters. CAE, GE Canada and Rockwell Collins in Canada have joined the team. Other key Canadian companies will also be announced in the near future.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

(Volume 24-06)

By David Pugliese

Above, Kevin McCoy, president of Irving Shipbuilding, and hundreds of employees at the Halifax Shipyard marked the start of production of the first Arctic Offshore Patrol Ship in September 2015. Irving recently announced that delays on the Canadian Surface Combatant program’s bids will not delay the start of ship construction. (cnw group, j.d. irving limited)

The Canadian government and Irving Shipbuilding Inc. have informed defence firms about yet another delay on the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) program. The government and Irving have extended the submission deadline for the CSC request for proposals.

Bidders had previously complained they didn’t have enough time to recruit Canadian firms for the surface combatant program and warned Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) that their bids would reflect that problem if they were not provided with more time. The deadline was originally June 22. That has now been delayed to at least mid-August, noted a statement from the federal government.

“As per the RFP, bidders can submit draft bids for review until June 15, 2017,” the statement from PSPC pointed out. “These bids will not be scored, and financial information will not be submitted, but bidders will be informed if any part of their submission is non-compliant, so they can make adjustments before submitting a final bid,” the statement noted.

This is the second extension granted through this RFP process. The original deadline was set for April 27, 2017.

With this extension, targeted completion for the procurement process moves to 2018 from fall 2017, according to PSPC. The start of ship construction remains scheduled for the early 2020s, the department added.

Meanwhile, things are moving along on another procurement program. A Royal Canadian Air Force delegation recently conducted a preliminary “anthropometric” examination of the cockpit of the Airbus C295W aircraft, which has been selected for Canada’s Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) program. The examination at Airbus’s Seville, Spain C295W final assembly line allowed the RCAF to gain more a detailed familiarity with the aircraft’s design and layout from a “human factors” perspective, Airbus officials said. The company demonstrated that RCAF equipment such as flight clothing, helmets and night-vision goggles will integrate with the C295 flight-deck.

Discovery Air Defence Services Inc. announced it had successfully completed its first-ever training with the Austrian Air Force over Wittmund, Germany. Seven Eurofighters from Austria’s 1st Squadron Überwachungsgeschwader (Surveillance Wing) in Zellweger trained against two DA Defence A-4N Skyhawks in air-to-air gunnery, and Eurofighters from the German Luftwaffe’s Tactical Air Force Wing (71 Richthofen) in supersonic intercepts, according to Discovery Air Defence Services. DA Defence’s training qualified the Austrian pilots in air-to-air weapons and tactics.

Leonardo Helicopters and IMP Aerospace & Defence say that they are re-establishing their “Team Cormorant” to pursue the proposed modernization of the Cormorant search and rescue helicopters. Team Cormorant comprises Leonardo Helicopters, the original equipment manufacturer of the EH101/AW101/Cormorant helicopters; IMP, the prime contractor for Cormorant in-service support; and other key Canadian companies who will supply and support critical aircraft components, technology, systems, simulation and training.

The Canadian government has awarded two maintenance contracts to KF Aerospace of British Columbia. The first contract, valued at $21.8-million, is for the maintenance of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CC-115 Buffalo search and rescue aircraft for a period of three years. That contract includes the option to extend the contract for an additional year. Canada has six Buffalos based in Comox, BC.

Two Discovery Air Defence jet aircraft bank away from each other during a flight training exercise. Discovery Air Defence recently completed its first-ever training with the Austrian Air Force over Wittmund, Germany, which saw two of its A-4N Skyhawks train in air-to-air gunnery against seven Austrian Eurofighters. (stefan petersen)

The second contract, valued at $9.6-million, is for maintenance work on the RCAF’s CC-138 Twin Otter aircraft for a period of four years. It includes the possibility of four additional one-year extensions. Canada’s four Twin Otters are based in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. “The work for both contracts will include ongoing life-cycle management, inspection repair, painting and modifications as well as the supply of high-priority spare parts, for the duration of the contracts,” the federal government noted in a news release.

Rockwell Collins rolled out a variety of military communications systems to highlight at CANSEC 2017. It also announced that the Canadian Army had selected its joint fires solution for its Digitally-Assisted Close Air Support (DACAS) system. That would digitally link airborne platforms and ground-based Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) via an Android smartphone. 
Under the contract, Rockwell Collins will produce and service 100 Android-based joint-fires systems with the potential for follow-on options. Rockwell Collins will qualify the initial systems by the summer of 2017 for the Canadian Army’s use on the multinational BOLD QUEST exercise in the fall, the company noted. The agreement also includes in-country service and support from Rockwell Collins in Canada for up to 10 years.
“Migrating away from hardware solutions to commercial off-the-shelf technology drives down cost and provides user-friendly and updatable platforms,” Lee Obst, managing director, Rockwell Collins for Canada, said in a statement. “The Android joint-fires solution is a great example of leveraging cutting-edge technology for military purposes.” 
Based upon the most widely used joint-fires system in the world, the wearable Android-based joint-fires solution delivers a lightweight and user-friendly solution while maintaining full digital interoperability with a wide range of coalition aircraft and artillery systems, Rockwell Collins added in a news release.
System development will be based in Richardson, Texas, while Rockwell Collins Canada will directly provide support to the Canadian Army. 

Lockheed Martin Canada will provide and install new combat management systems for three of the Chilean Navy’s frigates. The majority of the work will be done at Lockheed Martin Canada’s facilities in Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax. The combat management systems and other equipment will be installed on Chile’s Type 23 frigates.

Lockheed Martin Canada is not releasing details about the value of the contract.

Lockheed Martin’s Combat Management System 330 was chosen by Chile after a world-wide competition. A similar system is in use on the Royal Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class frigates.

“We are thrilled with this award and look forward to working with the Chilean Navy and ASMAR, the Chilean shipyard, as well as forging long-term relationships with Chilean partners to deliver new capability to the Armada de Chile,” Rosemary Chapdelaine, vice president for Lockheed Martin Canada Rotary and Mission Systems, said in a statement.

Work has already started in Canada on the systems. The work to be done eventually in Chile will focus on integrating the systems on the ships and testing them.  In 2014, Lockheed Martin Canada signed a contract to conduct similar modernization work on two of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s frigates. Installation of those systems is expected to take place sometime later this year or early next year in Victoria, BC.

The Kongsberg Maritime camera systems group from the UK will be supplying large network Internet Protocol closed-circuit television system for Project Resolve, the interim supply ship for the Royal Canadian Navy. The system has been delivered to Chantier Davie in Levis, Quebec.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

Federal Fleet Services is in the final stages of converting a European-built containership into an auxiliary oiler replenishment (AOR) ship for the Royal Canadian Navy. According to Project Resolve, the ship will be able to assist with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) in addition to performing replenishment at sea for task groups.  (cnw group, davie shipbuilding)

(Volume 24-5)

By David Pugliese

Davie Shipbuilding says that its Resolve-class auxiliary oiler replenishment (AOR) vessel is heading into its final stages. The company announced May 1 that the “accommodation block” for the ship had arrived. The accommodation module was built in Europe by Almaco.

“While 85 per cent of the entire project was completed in Canada, the approximately 15 per cent we outsourced to Finland was in an area where Canada is no longer at the cutting edge and that is in marine accommodation outfitting,” explained Spencer Fraser, CEO of Federal Fleet Services. “Through the partnership with Almaco, there is a technology transfer which will result in the development of a new production line at Davie dedicated to the fabrication of pre-outfitted accommodation modules for future programs.”

Alex Vicefield, chairman of Davie Shipbuilding added, “This is not just about allowing us to meet the fast-track schedule to deliver Canada an urgently-needed naval supply ship. This is about developing a new set of skills which doesn’t currently exist in the Canadian shipbuilding industry.”

He noted the project is a demonstration of how shipbuilding programs can be delivered rapidly and at a significantly lower cost by building ship sections at different sites for assembly at a central location.

The conversion of the commercial vessel Asterix into a Resolve-class AOR involved stripping the modern vessel down to its bare hull and main propulsion system and then rebuilding the entire ship to military specifications, Davie noted. The conversion was designed and engineered in Canada and incorporates Canadian naval technology such as an Integrated Navigation and Tactical Bridge System from OSI in Vancouver, a STREAM-type replenishment-at-sea system from Hepburn Engineering in Ontario, and an entire Integrated Platform Management System from L3 MAPPS in Montreal, Davie said.

Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) celebrated the production of its 100,000th engine in May. The firm noted the milestone is a testament its longevity and leadership in the global aerospace market. P&WC, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp., has 60,000 in-service engines operated by 12,300 customers in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. The firm pointed out that its engine families span across general aviation, regional turboprops, business aviation, civil helicopters and auxiliary power units and total 730 million flight hours logged.

Pratt & Whitney Canada’s reach is so extensive that every second a P&WC-powered aircraft takes off or lands somewhere on the planet

Lockheed Martin Canada has been shortlisted by the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) to compete for the role of Combat Systems Contractor for the Finnish Navy’s new corvette program, known as Squadron 2020. Four ice-capable Squadron 2020 vessels are being designed to replace the Finnish Rauma-class fast-attack missile boats and Hämeenmaa-class minelayers which will reach the end of their life-cycle by the mid-2020s.

In December 2016, the FDF issued a qualification solicitation to 12 international combat system integration companies. The FDF has now shortlisted three companies to move forward over the next year in a competition. The selected Combat Systems Contractor will work with the native shipyard, Rauma Marine Constructions, to deliver the new ships.

“This is a fantastic testament to our Canadian-developed CMS 330 and integration capability — further validation of our world-leading offer in the international naval systems market,” Rosemary Chapdelaine, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Canada RMS (Rotary and Missions Systems), said in a statement. “Work on this program would be performed in our Kanata, Montreal, and Halifax locations; including manufacturing of the combat management system hardware in our production facility in Ottawa as well as software and systems development, integrated systems testing and trials in our Montreal and Halifax facilities,” she added.

DCNS delivered the FREMM multi-mission frigate Auvergne to the French Navy, as stipulated in the contract, on April 11. “The delivery of the FREMM Auvergne represents an opportunity to applaud the industrial and technological prowess of DCNS and its subcontractors. The frigate Auvergne illustrates our capacity to produce and deliver on time a series of front-line combat vessels to satisfy the needs of our client navies,” Nicolas Gaspard, director of the FREMM program at DCNS, said in a statement. On completion, the FREMM program will represent the construction of 10 vessels on the DCNS Lorient site, of which eight are for the French Navy. Six FREMM are to be delivered to the French Navy before the end of 2019.

DCNS is currently completing the FREMM Bretagne, which was floated on September 16, 2016, and is pursuing the assembly of the FREMM Normandie. Work has already started on the ninth FREMM in the series, the Alsace, which will be one of the two FREMMs with strengthened anti-aircraft capacities, whose deliveries are scheduled before 2022.

Davie Shipbuilding is once again highlighting its Project Resolute — a plan to provide Canada with the world’s four most powerful, privately-owned multi-role icebreakers at what it says is a fraction of the cost of building from scratch. The firm is promoting their design as an affordable and timely solution to meet the Canadian Coast Guard capability shortages.

Project Resolute was developed as part of an official solicitation from the government of Canada seeking solutions to meet our country’s icebreaking and oil-spill response capability requirements.

Rheinmetall AG announced it has won two important first orders for protecting sensitive government infrastructure from aerial drones. In Switzerland, the central prison in Lenzburg and the inter-cantonal penitentiary in Bostadel have contracted with the Düsseldorf-based high-tech group to install drone detection equipment known as the Radshield System.

Consisting of an array of video cameras, infrared sensors and radars, these sophisticated surveillance systems will monitor the grounds and airspace of these facilities day and night, detecting any flying object — not just drones but also model airplanes and balloons, Rheinmetall noted in a news release.

“Due to go into operation soon, these systems will make a significant contribution to countering attempts to smuggle in contraband such as weapons, drugs, tools and mobile phones,” the firm added.

In addition, the system can also detect objects thrown over walls and fences, even when they measure only a few centimetres in diameter.

Drone intrusions are on the rise around the world and in recent years there has been an upsurge in the use of remotely controlled aerial drones to fly contraband into prisons, the company added.

Rosborough Boats of Nova Scotia will build 12 multi-role rigid hull rescue boats, two for each of the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) Irving Shipyard is building for the Royal Canadian Navy. (rosborough)

Irving Shipbuilding Inc. has awarded Nova Scotia boat builder Rosborough Boats a $7.3-million contract to provide Multi-Role Rescue Boats for the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS).

Rosborough Boats will construct two of their Rough Water 8.5-metre rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) for each of the six AOPS vessels being constructed at Irving Shipbuilding’s Halifax Shipyard.

ADGA Group received a recent contract to provide expertise to DND with the implementation of SSC Telecommunication and Network Transformation across the Defence department and Canadian military.

Jean-Pierre Lachance, president of ADGA Group, said the firm is “proud to provide professional services to assist the transition of DND/CAF employees to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephony.”

L3 WESCAM has joined forces with Taqnia Defense and Security Technology Co. (DST). In February the two companies signed a long-term service centre agreement to open a WESCAM Authorized Service Center (WASC) in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

DST is wholly owned by Saudi Development and Investment Technology Company (Taqnia), which is 100 per cent owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF). DST’s objectives are to establish, develop, produce, and transfer defence and security technologies in cooperation with strategic international and national partners.

INDUSTRY WATCH: Who's Who And What's What In The Defence Sector

Lockheed Martin Canada’s Combat System Trainer was delivered to the Maritime Warfare Training Centre at the Royal New Zealand Navy base in Devonport, New Zealand. The simulator is part of the RNZN’s Frigate System Upgrade Project. (lockheed martin canada)

(Volume 24-4)

By David Pugliese

Officials with Lockheed Martin Canada and New Zealand’s Chief of Navy Rear Admiral John Martin officially opened the New Zealand ANZAC combat system trainer.

The trainer was Lockheed Martin Canada’s first major delivery under the New Zealand ANZAC Frigate System Upgrade Project. Lockheed Martin Canada is the prime systems integrator.

The combat system trainer was delivered ahead of schedule to the Maritime Warfare Training Centre at the Royal New Zealand Navy base in Devonport on February 16, 2017, according to Lockheed Martin.

“It is wonderful to receive the trainer early, which will allow our sailors to be properly prepared when the upgraded ships arrive,” RAdm Martin said in a statement. “Lockheed Martin Canada’s combat system trainer is a world-class trainer that will revolutionize the way we train our crews.”

“The ANZAC combat system trainer provides a generational shift in training capability with a realistic synthetic environment capable of generating high fidelity simulations of real world conditions,” added Rosemary Chapdelaine, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Canada Rotary and Mission Systems. “We are proud of our Canadian-developed solution and thrilled to deliver this advanced capability to the Royal New Zealand Navy.”

This milestone marks the first international delivery of Lockheed Martin Canada’s combat management system, the CMS 330 product line, initially developed for Canada’s Department of National Defence and then modified for the Royal New Zealand Navy with Canada’s support, according to the firm.

The CMS 330 and Lockheed Martin Canada’s combat system integration capability are proving performance everyday on Canada’s modernized Halifax-class frigates, it added in a news release.

Lockheed Martin Canada noted in the same news release that it is the only Canadian company to pre-qualify as a combat systems integrator for the upcoming Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) program. The company was also selected as the command and surveillance integrator for Canada’s new fleet of Arctic/Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS).

Commissionaires has ranked among the top employers in Canada, according to Forbes’ list of Canada’s Best Employers of 2017.

Commissionaires ranked second in the industry sector and placed in the top half of the 300 employers, outranking other Canadian security services providers by a wide margin.

“We work very hard to provide a great working environment and stable employment across Canada,” Bruce Belliveau, Chair of the Commissionaires National Business Management Committee and CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, said in a statement. “Commissionaires is honoured to, once again, be recognized as one of Canada’s top employers and the highest ranked security company.”

Forbes partnered with online statistics provider Statista to survey more than 8,000 Canadian workers. The resulting list includes 300 employers across 25 industries. The workers surveyed were asked to identify, on a scale of zero to 10, how likely they were to recommend their employer to someone else and what they thought about the other employers in their industry.

There have been more new leadership announcements at Seaspan in Vancouver. Steve Roth has been promoted to President of Seaspan Ferries Corporation (SFC). Paul Thomas has been promoted to Senior Vice President and General Manager – Vancouver Shipyards. John Petticrew is promoted to Vice President, Engineering. Andy Hale has been promoted to the position of Vice President – Program Delivery. John Lyle has been hired as Vice President – Operations.

Frasca International of Urbana, Illinois announced it sold a Level 7 Flight Training Device (FTD) for the Bell CH-139 Jet Ranger helicopter for use by the Royal Canadian Air Force.

The training device was ordered by Bluedrop Training & Simulation Inc. of Halifax, Nova Scotia. That firm is involved in the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) program at Portage la Prairie, Manitoba.

The new FTD will include Frasca’s 6 Degree of Freedom (6 DoF) Motion Cueing System (FMCS) optimized for helicopter simulation and will integrate a FlightSafety VITAL 1100 visual image generation system with a Frasca 220° x 67° field of view visual display, according to a news release from Frasca.

All RCAF pilots receive their primary fixed-wing aircraft training at Southport and those selected to fly helicopters return to the school for the six-month Phase III helicopter program that utilizes 13 Bell CH-139 (B206B3) Jet Ranger and nine Bell 412CF (B412CF) Outlaw helicopters. 

Conservative budget cuts to the RCN resulted in the CFAV Quest, the last oceanographic research ship used by the RCN and Defence Research and Development Canada, to be permanently docked in Halifax since February 2014. The vessel will now be scrapped.

The Frasca FTD is scheduled to be installed by Bluedrop by March 2018 and be ready for training in April 2018, according to Frasca. The Jet Ranger FTD will have the capability to allow pilots to safely practice realistic helicopter emergencies in a variety of regions and weather conditions and prepare pilots for winter “white out” conditions in blowing snow. The availability of the FTD will also allow RCAF helicopter flight training to continue when the helicopter fleet is grounded by bad weather, and its advanced technology system will ultimately allow the RCAF to compress helicopter training timelines, if desired.

Public Services and Procurement Canada has put out a request for bids from industry for the disposal of the former HMCS Preserver and the former Canadian Forces Auxiliary Vessel (CFAV) Quest, an oceanographic research and acoustic ship used by the Canadian Armed Forces for almost 50 years.

The winning contractor will be required to prepare the ships for disposal, remove any equipment for museums, demilitarize controlled goods on board, and then break the vessels up.

Work on the former HMCS Preserver must begin when the contact is awarded and be completed within 18 months. The former CFAV Quest will be provided to the winning bidder on September 1 and must be dismantled within 18 months. The contractor will also have to remove both vessels from the Halifax dockyard jetty.