Category: Military

Reliable Robotics Awarded Military Airworthiness Approval for a Commercial Autonomous Flight System

Reliable Robotics announced that it has received military airworthiness approval to begin flight testing and operational missions of its remotely piloted Cessna 208 Caravan for the U.S. Air Force. This approval signifies a deeper level of engagement with the Department of Defense (DoD) by enabling Reliable to demonstrate dual-use automated flight capabilities for military use cases, including cargo missions.

“Nothing compares to showcasing how our autonomous flight capabilities will immediately enable new ways for the U.S. Air Force and other departments of the military to lead with innovation, improve safety and project power across the globe,” said Dr. David O’Brien, Major General (Ret.), and Senior Vice President of Government Solutions at Reliable Robotics.

DoD airworthiness policies require all aircraft and air systems owned, leased, operated, used, designed, or modified for Air Force applications complete an airworthiness assessment in accordance with Air Force standards. In order to meet these requirements, Reliable completed a comprehensive safety analysis, maintenance and operational evaluations and testing of the automated flight technologies. This airworthiness achievement was a key milestone of Reliable’s Phase III Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract.

“Our AFWERX partners are developing exciting automation technologies through robust engineering and flight test campaigns,” said Hank “Hog” Griffiths, AFWERX airworthiness and test lead. “The technology is maturing rapidly and this airworthiness approval for a certified aircraft retrofitted with an autonomous flight system provides significant opportunities for the military.”

Reliable’s collaboration with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and AFWERX began in 2021 and includes SBIR awards, as well as a large aircraft automation study. In 2023, Reliable demonstrated automated flight for distinguished military personnel as part of the Golden Phoenix exercise at Travis Air Force base.

Air Industries Group Receives Two Strategically Important New Contracts from New Customers

Air Industries Group, an integrated Tier 1 manufacturer of precision assemblies and components for mission-critical aerospace and defense applications, and a prime contractor to the U.S. Department of Defense, announced that it has received two separate strategically important contracts, both from new customers.

Air Industries has received an initial order for structural engine nacelle components for the new CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter. This initial order is for just under $1 million, but is the first release against an anticipated five-year order expected to be in excess of $12 million.

Separately, Air Industries has received an order from a major landing gear manufacturer for actuator subassemblies on a developmental aircraft. This initial order is modest at approximately $1 million, but this award concludes what has been a multi-year effort to establish a relationship with this large and important customer. When the program enters the production phase, the anticipated order value increases exponentially.

Lou Melluzzo, CEO of Air Industries, commented: “These awards are very satisfying and result from our increased investment and efforts in business development. Air Industries is focused on increasing its workshare on the Sikorsky CH-53K. This new contract from a new customer furthers that goal.

“The second contract is also from a new customer and is significant to Air Industries, as it represents an important first step from a large OEM in establishing a relationship that will grow materially. The order is for a developmental aircraft. Producing new, prototype product requires a high level of expertise, and considerable concurrent engineering skill. It is a tribute to Air Industries that this World Class OEM has placed its trust in us. We anticipate additional substantial orders in the coming months.”

AvionTEq Enters into a Multi-Year Exclusive Agreement with Flight Data Systems for HHMPI and Flight Data Readouts

AvionTEq announced that they have entered into a multi-year exclusive contract with Flight Data Systems (FDS) for supply of HHMPI (Handheld Multi-Purpose Interface) units and flight data readout services.

Flight Data Systems (FDS) stands as a premier provider of readout reports, catering to MRO facilities, commercial airlines, and defense organizations on a global scale. FDS offers a variety of comprehensive FDR, CVR, and DLR readout analysis reports, serving a diverse clientele comprising over 300 customers worldwide. With 440+ databases covering fixed-wing and rotorcraft airframes, FDS offers an extensive range of options. The company possesses the capability to craft databases in-house, ensuring tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of its clients.

“This contract, valued in the millions (USD), shows a significant commitment to Flight Data Systems, the HHMPI, and our Readouts Services,” mentions Shane LaPlante, VP of sales and marketing at Flight Data Systems. “We are looking forward to continuing to build upon our solid partnership with AvionTEq to provide services and products that ensure their customers’ operations are efficient, mission-ready, and safe.”

“I and our entire team look forward to working with AvionTEq for the years to come,” says Scott Warner, director of business development from Flight Data Systems.

Operating as an FAA certified repair station (CRS # 5AXR435B) for the past two decades, AvionTEq has acquired a profound understanding of its clients’ needs. The robustness of AvionTEq’s quality system not only meets but consistently exceeds clients’ most stringent requirements, reflecting their commitment to delivering exceptional service and reliability. AvionTEq continues to solidify its position as the go-to source for avionics tooling and testing equipment, along with comprehensive support services, for aircraft maintenance facilities, operators, and manufacturers.

“We are excited to be expanding our partnership with Flight Data Systems,” mentions Fred Bostani, president, AvionTEq. “This agreement will help us deliver the same high-quality services and solutions our customers and partners have come to expect of AvionTEq.”

RTX Names Christopher T. Calio to Succeed Gregory J. Hayes as CEO

In a planned leadership transition, RTX recently announced thatChristopher T. Calio, president and chief operating officer, will succeed Gregory J. Hayes as chief executive officer at the 2024 RTX Annual Shareowners Meeting scheduled for May 2. Hayes will continue to serve as executive chairman of RTX. Calio was also appointed to the company’s board of directors effective mid-December.

“Today’s announcement reflects the Board’s deliberate, disciplined succession planning process,” said chairman and CEO Greg Hayes. “Chris has a deep understanding of the industry, our customers’ needs and our operations. I have every confidence in his ability to lead RTX and drive the company’s long-term success.” 

“Greg has had a remarkable career leading RTX, his vision to transform from a conglomerate to a top global aerospace and defense company has created tremendous value for shareowners, employees and our nation,” said Fredric G. Reynolds, Board lead director.  “The Board looks forward to Greg’s continued influence and leadership as executive chairman.”

“The Board is very pleased to have Chris Calio succeed Greg Hayes as RTX CEO,” added Reynolds. “Chris has been disciplined in leading the company’s operations and strategic growth strategy. We look forward to working with and supporting Chris as he leads RTX to continued growth and success.” 

“I deeply value the Board’s confidence in me and am grateful for the opportunity to lead the RTX team forward,” said Chris Calio. “I am honored to succeed Greg, who has built the best positioned portfolio in aerospace and defense.  As a leadership team, we are focused on driving operational excellence and accelerating technological innovation as we deliver on the record backlog of customer demand and meet shareowner expectations.”

As president and chief operating officer of RTX, Calio, 50, oversees the company’s three business units, as well as its functions for technology, engineering, enterprise services, digital, operations, quality, supply chain, and environment, health and safety. In 2023, Calio oversaw the realignment of RTX from four to three business segments: Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney and Raytheon. Prior to his current role, Calio was president of Pratt & Whitney, where he led the business that designs, manufactures and services aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. He joined the company in 2005 and held various leadership roles and drove significant transformational change throughout his tenure.

Responsible for leading 180,000 employees and $67 billion in annual sales, Hayes, 63, has been instrumental in creating a global organization focused on delivering innovative products and solutions for a safer, more connected world. 

Elected chairman of the board in 2021, Hayes had a nearly 21-year career at United Technologies Corporation, holding several senior leadership roles across finance, corporate strategy and business development, culminating with his appointment to chief executive officer in 2014 and chairman in 2016. As CEO, Hayes led the reshaping of UTC from industrial conglomerate to a focused aerospace company. Beginning with the divestiture of Sikorsky Aircraft in 2015 and the acquisition of Rockwell Collins in 2018, Hayes continued to focus the business with the spinoffs of Otis Elevator Company and Carrier Corporation in 2020. Hayes then led the merger of UTC’s remaining aerospace businesses, Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace Systems, with Raytheon Company, to form RTX in April 2020. 

Eaton Names John Sapp President, Aerospace Group; Nanda Kumar to Retire

Eaton recently announced that John Sapp has joined the company effective December 4, 2023. He will succeed Nanda Kumar as the president of Eaton’s Aerospace Group upon Kumar’s retirement on March 31, 2024. Sapp will report to Paulo Ruiz, president and chief operating officer, Industrial Sector, and will join Eaton’s senior leadership team.

“Nanda is an exceptional leader who inspires and motivates others with his passion for our mission and deep expertise across our businesses,” said Ruiz. “I want to express my gratitude to Nanda for his invaluable contributions to the company and congratulate him on his retirement.”

Sapp joins Eaton from Collins Aerospace, where he most recently served as vice president and general manager of Strategic Solutions for Mission Systems. Before this role, he was the vice president and general manager of the Integrated Solutions business and prior to that, vice president of Commercial Aftermarket Sales and Support. Before joining Collins in 2018, Sapp held leadership roles with GE Aviation and was an F-15C fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force. He also attended and later served as an instructor at the U.S. Air Force Fighter Weapons School.

Announcing 7th Annual Military Aviation & Air Dominance Summit

Defense Strategies Institute announced the 6th Military Aviation & Air Dominance Summit is returning to Huntsville, AL on January 31 – February 1 at the Jackson Center. The 2024 Summit boasts an expanded exhibit hall, increased networking, and access to top decision makers from across the military commands.
Speakers at this forum will highlight key topics in military aviation, including the Army’s Future Vertical Lift portfolio, cost-effective modernization of air platforms, collaboration with industry and international partners, utilizing advanced capabilities to ensure air dominance, and bolstering readiness and modernization to sustain global air superiority. The 2024 event will also feature panels on accelerating global partnerships, MOSA, and crewed-uncrewed teaming.

The 2024 Summit will feature senior-level speakers including:

– MG Walter T. Rugen, USA, Director, Army Aviation, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7
– MG Robert L. Barrie Jr, USA, Special Assistant to the Principal Military Deputy, U.S. Army ASA(ALT).
– MG Michael C. McCurry, USA, Commanding General, Army Aviation Center of Excellence
– MG Thomas W. O’Connor Jr., USA, Commanding General, U.S. Army Aviation & Missile Command
– BG Phillip C. Baker, USA, Director, Future Vertical Lift Cross Functional Team, U.S. Army Futures Command
– RDML Michael P. Donnelly, USN, Director, Air Warfare (N98), Office of the Chief of Naval Operations
– Rodney Davis, SES, Acting Program Executive Officer, PEO Aviation

Topics to be covered at the Summit Include:

– Transforming Army aviation vertical lift capabilities to ensure war-winning future readiness
– Equipping the Army aviation force of 2030 to fight & win
– Strengthening global partnerships & utilizing advanced capabilities to achieve aviation dominance
– Enhancing partnerships, presence, & military readiness to help ensure air dominance across the INDOPACOM AOR
– Developing & delivering advanced Army aviation capabilities for all-domain operations
– Delivering & sustaining war-winning 5th generation air capabilities to the Warfighter
– Accelerating MOSA in the battlespace to support the current/future aviator
– And more!

DSI is now welcoming Sponsors and Exhibitors for the forum. Reserve your spot to showcase your organization’s cutting-edge technologies to over 300 attendees from U.S. Military Services, DoD, International Partners, Acquisition Authorities, & Industry. To learn more please contact Amanda Delgado at adelgado@dsigroup.org, 201-940-6680.

In order to allow for actionable discussion and dialogue amongst speaker and attendees, seating will be limited. Register now to reserve your seat. Active military and government and state personnel attend complimentary. Those interested in participating in the 6th Annual Military Aviation & Air Dominance Summit can visit Defense Strategies Institute’s website at https://www.aviationdominance.com/.

Anyone interested in learning more or sending questions contact Erica Noreika at enoreika@dsigroup.org, 201-896-7802.

New Titan Tool Supply Miniature Handheld Industrial Grade Videoscope Series Supports Demanding Non-Destructive Testing and Remote Visual Inspection Tasks

Titan Tool Supply has announced the recent global market launch of its TVGM Series. This family of miniature, high-definition handheld industrial-grade videoscopes are designed to support a variety of non-destructive testing and remote visual inspection tasks.

Offered in four unique models, with a choice of either a 3.9mm or 6mm camera and either a 1.5M or 3M videoscope probe length, the TVGM Series features dual-key operation, a modular and ergonomic design, ease of portability, one-handed operation and end-user capability to easily swap out probe lengths for increased application adaptability. The highly intuitive end-user interface of the TVGM Series also offers end-user selectable operation in up to 10 unique languages.

At the heart of each TVGM Series videoscope lies a powerful onboard controller delivering high-definition imaging, reliability and stability. Each TVGM Series videoscope is further equipped with a high sensitivity onboard 720P CMOS sensor, supporting continuous remote visualization, inspection, and observation tasks, even under low or reduced light conditions. A 4.3-inch high-definition LCD touchscreen display with high-intensity LED illumination allows for clear viewing of the magnified images and videos captured remotely by the high-resolution videoscope camera. The device also offers on-demand recording, easy file access, parameter setting and real-time data storage of JPG or AVI files onto an onboard 32GB microSD card.

In addition, TVGM Series videoscopes feature IP67-rated, wear-resistant braided tungsten alloy insertion cable for 360-degree all-way manual articulation. The cable provides exceptional abrasion resistance and includes a unique self-locking capability for more precise control. The series also includes a four-hour working rechargeable battery for an extended field service life and is supplied with a waterproof carrying case.

Typical applications for the Titan Tool Supply TVGM Series include remote visual inspections of smaller-sized precision industrial machinery and equipment; casting, aviation MRO, automotive service, and commercial HVAC inspections; remote detection of foreign objects, blockages, and structural defects; and comparative remote measurements of automotive engine cylinders, pistons, valves, carbon deposit detection, hydraulic and pneumatic parts, steel pipes, castings, and containers, even in low or reduced light conditions and space-constrained environments.

Kaman Measuring Highlights KD-5100+ Differential Measurement System

The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products, Inc. is highlighting the availability of its KD-5100+ high reliability differential displacement measurement system, with nanometer resolution. With its extremely small size, and low power consumption, the KD-5100+ is ideal for laser communications satellites and ground stations, image stabilization systems, and directed energy systems for ground, shipboard and airborne applications.

The KD-5100+ is an upgraded, higher reliability version of Kaman’s proven KD-5100 measuring system and utilizes the identical proprietary hybrid microcircuit. The KD-5100+ incorporates upgrades to the circuit layout, ground connections, and sensor connectors, and adds higher reliability diodes and capacitors.

Featuring a small package size – only 2 x 2.12 x 0.75 inches thick – the KD-5100+ is an ideal solution for meeting SWaP-C requirements. It is manufactured to Mil-PRF-38534 Class H, with MIL-SPEC components used throughout the electronics. The KD-5100+ features a mean time between failures exceeding 238,000 hours in a space flight environment and 55,000 hours in a tactical environment. Kaman also offers the DIT-5200, a commercial version of the KD-5100+ for applications where mil-spec requirements, size, weight and power consumption are less critical.

King Aerospace Welcomes Pete Schneider as VP of Program Management and Special Projects

King Aerospace, an international leader in modification and maintenance support for VVIP, government, military and special missions aircraft, is pleased to announce that industry veteran Pete Schneider recently joined the company as its new vice-president, program management and special projects.

Schneider brings to King Aerospace more than 35 years of project management experience across many challenging, high-profile and highly diversified aerospace programs, including more than 15 years managing VVIP aircraft programs for the U.S. Air Force and international leaders with Greenpoint Technologies and The Boeing Company.

“Pete is a fantastic addition to the King Aerospace family,” said Jarid King, King Aerospace president. “His expertise will be invaluable as we continue to pursue new maintenance and completions opportunities in special missions and VVIP segments.”

Schneider will oversee maintenance and completions projects for King Aerospace Commercial Corp. (KACC), which concentrates on business and corporate aircraft such as the Boeing Business Jet; King Aerospace Inc. (KAI), responsible for handling military and government contracts; and KACC Arkansas, specializing in widebody government special mission aircraft.

With an extensive background in program management, engineering and business development, Schneider has worked on and managed projects as diverse as the F-22 Raptor fifth-generation fighter aircraft and special mission commercial derivative aircraft development for the U.S. presidential fleet, including the Boeing C-32A, C-40C and VC-25A.

Most recently, Schneider managed Greenpoint’s interior completions program for the VC-25B, the upcoming replacement for the aircraft commonly known as “Air Force One” based on the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental.

He has also overseen aircraft modifications and completions for VVIP, commercial and head-of-state customers. These include the first LiveTV installation on a commercial aircraft and a complete nose-to-tail interior reconfiguration for a major U.S. airline.

Schneider also brings decades of experience in MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) operations to King Aerospace, with an extensive background in interior completions, inflight entertainment systems and structural modifications.

“I look forward to continuing King Aerospace’s hard-earned reputation for delivering on our commitments to clients,” Schneider said. “This is a very special company, and I welcome the opportunity to help guide the selection of new projects and programs and, above all, fulfilling our Servant Leadership responsibility to all of our valued employees, partners and customers.”

Schneider has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Minnesota and also completed advanced executive leadership and education programs at Harvard Business School and the University of Washington.

StandardAero Maryville Celebrates 7,500th Rolls-Royce AE Family Shop Visit, Including 500th AE 1107C

StandardAero is celebrating delivery of the 7,500th Rolls-Royce AE family engine from the company’s maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in Maryville, Tenn. The AE common core family includes the AE 2100 turboprop, AE 3007 turbofan and AE 1107 turboshaft, and StandardAero is an Rolls-Royce Authorized Maintenance Center (AMC) for all three powerplants.

Since inducting its first AE 3007 turbofan in 1997, the Maryville facility has to date processed over 6,500 engines. The AE 3007 powers the Embraer ERJ regional jet family (AE 3007A), the Cessna Citation X business jet (AE 3007C), the Northrop Grumman RQ/MQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system (UAS) (AE 3007H) and the Boeing MQ-25 Stingray UAS (AE 3007N).

StandardAero added the AE 1107 to its MRO portfolio under a 30-year long-term agreement signed with Rolls-Royce in 2018, since then the Maryville facility has processed over 500 engines. The AE 1107C powers the Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey, while the AE 1107F variant has been selected to power the Bell V-280 Valor Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA). StandardAero also supports the related MT7 marine gas turbine, which powers the Textron Systems LCAC 100-class Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC)

StandardAero received AMC approval for the AE 2100 in 1993, and has supported the engine from Maryville since 2021. StandardAero serves operators of the type across the world, including those flying the Lockheed Martin C-130J / LM-100J Hercules (AE 2100D3), Alenia C-27J Spartan (AE 2100D2), AE 2100A (Saab 2000) and ShinMaywa US-2 (AE 2100J).

“StandardAero is proud of its close relationship with Rolls-Royce on the AE family of engines, and honored to be the support provider of choice for operators around the globe,” commented Greg Krekeler, vice president and general manager of StandardAero’s Maryville facility. “The team here at Maryville understands that military, commercial and corporate operators worldwide rely on us to deliver responsive, reliable support and our team of 275 skilled professionals set the standard of excellence day in and day out.”

In addition to the AE family, StandardAero’s 154,000 sq. ft. Maryville facility also supports a wide range of auxiliary power units, including the Honeywell GTCP 36-100/150 and RE220, the Pratt & Whitney Canada APS 2300, and the Safran Power Units SPU300.