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NATIONAL NEWSLETTER No 3 of 2013

In this issue

AIDN NATIONAL NEWS AIDN-CANBERRA

AIDN-CANBERRA NEWS AIDN-NEW SOUTH WALES

AIDN-NSW NEW MEMBERS AIDN-QUEENSLAND

AIDN-QLD NEWS DEFENCE TEAMING CENTRE (DTC)

DTC NEWS AIDN-VICTORIA

AIDN-VIC NEW MEMBERS AIDN-VIC MEMBERS' NEWS

VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT NEWS AIDN-WESTERN AUSTRALIA

AIDN-WA MEMBERS' NEWS DEFENCE INDUSTRY NEWS

GENERAL NEWS UPCOMING ACTIVITIES

AIDN NATIONAL NEWS

AIDN YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARD 2013

Jessica White from MEMKO Pty Ltd (an AIDN-Vic member) was announced as the national winner of the 2013 Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN) Young Achiever Award (YAA) at the ADM2013 Congress awards dinner on 12 February in Canberra.

In introducing the national finalists the AIDN National President, Graham Priestnall said ‘that although the finalists worked in diverse backgrounds within the defence industry, each YAA displayed outstanding qualities in their profession and are a credit to themselves and their employers.’ Mr Priestnall also remarked that, ‘this year’s AIDN National YAA competition had six finalists, which the most numerous one of the strongest in the award’s history. He also expressed AIDN’s gratitude for the ongoing support provided by the DMO and the ADM.

LtoR Tammy Chau, DTC, Anthony Galea, AIDN-NSW, Jessica White, AIDN-Vic & National Winner, Graham Priestnall, AIDN President, Joshua Zvargulis, AIDN-ACT, Matthew Shelley, AIDN-WA and Tim Cervenjak, AIDN-Qld

AIDN-Canberra

AIDN-Canberra NEWS

CEA Technologies for Williamtown Aerospace Centre

Williamtown Aerospace Centre (WAC) has exchanged a Letter of Intent with CEA Technologies to lease office space in the proposed 100 hectare development on the civil side of the big air force base at Williamtown, 30kms north of Newcastle, the second biggest city in the state of New South Wales.

AIDN National Meeting

The next AIDN National Meeting is scheduled to be held in Brisbane on Thursday 20 June.

AIDN WebsiteHave you checked your entry on the AIDN web site under 'Industry Search' recently? AIDN is aware of a large number of global primes, defence personnel etc who search our web site looking for capability. It is important to ensure that you information is accurate especially your contact details. If you would like any changes made please forward them to [email protected]

Upcoming Activities

International Maritime Security Conference (IMSC)14-16 May 2013

Changi, Signapore. IMSC 2013 will bring together Navy Chiefs, Coast Guard Directors-General and academia around the world to discuss threats to maritime security and safety, as well as develop frameworks and solutions to deal with the security challenges that threaten and disrupt sea lines of communication. More details to be released closer to the date. Further Information: IMDEX Asia Web: http://www.imdexasia.com/index.aspx

ADM Cyber Security Conference12-13 June, 2013Hotel Realm, Canberra

ADM's 3rd Cyber Security Summit will see stakeholders from Australia's Defence and National Security agencies address the current and emerging cyber threats to Australia’s security. More details to be released closer to the date.

Enquiries: ADM Events - Jamie Burrage, Ph: 02 9080 4321; Email: [email protected]: www.admevents.com.au

DSEi 10-13 September, 2013ExCel, London

DSEI is the largest fully integrated defence and security show in the world, featuring Air, Naval, Land and Security show content. Based in ExCeL, London every two years, the event provides unrivalled access to key markets across the globe.

Enquiries: Web: www.dsei.co.uk

Williamtown is the main fighter base for the air force and will be the home of the future fleet of up to 100 Lockheed Martin F-35 JSFs.

The Centre is a partnership of Hunter Land, Port Stephens and Newcastle City Councils, the University of Newcastle, Varley, Newcastle Airport and Singleton Council.

The WAC development has been underway since 2009 and CEA is its first tenant. It proposes to lease commercial office space, industrial lots as well as hangars with airport tow away access and sized to meet tenant requirements. Construction of individual lots is to start in mid 2013.

AIDN-NEW SOUTH WALES

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Hello again from the NSW chapter,

I quiet month for AIDN-NSW saw a highlight in the session held by Trade & Investment to get feedback from the NSW JDIOs on their draft NSW Defence Industry Action Plan. While I can’t give any details as the Plan is subject to Cabinet endorsement prior to release, I can say the document is sound and there were a number of suggestions made for further improvement. Implementation of the Plan will surely see a far better and supportive environment for defence industry in NSW. The continuing value of the NSW JDIOs was clearly evident to both sides in the session. We will continue to support the Organisation as a valuable contribution to our membership.

Our AGM is fast approaching in June. I would ask all of you to consider whether you wish to further your contribution to the Network by joining the committee this year. We have a strong and proactive leadership team but there is always room for new blood with fresh ideas.

Finally, keep in mind that there is a Pacific 2013 Maritime Exposition in October this year in conjunction with Navy’s 100 Years Fleet Review. We have moved our Annual Dinner to be at the end of that week too. We are expecting the function to be bigger than ever, and it could also be the time when a NSW Young Achiever is announced from your company (YAA details for 2013 will be announced soon). There will never be a better time to take part in the Pacific series as even stronger support will be coming from the NSW Govt than in previous years. Keep an eye out for details as they emerge.

RegardsAlan RankinsNSW President

AIDN-NSW MEMBERS' NEWS

QUICKSTEP DELIVERS FIRST JSF PARTS FROM BANKSTOWN FACILITY

Carbon composites manufacturer Quickstep recently announced that it has delivered from its new Bankstown facility its first parts for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program to global aerospace company Northrop Grumman Corporation. The parts were completed according to the schedule agreed when the company made its decision to move to Bankstown some two years ago. The company will continue ramping up production from now. Quickstep has now received purchase orders for all three groups of parts.

The parts are complex panels for the JSF aircraft and one of 21 parts to be manufactured by Quickstep under its Northrop Grumman JSF contracts utilising their state of the art production facilities including autoclaves, precision machining centres, co-ordinate measuring machines, non-destructive testing equipment and paint facilities.

QUICKSTEP RECEIVES LARGEST JSF PURCHASE ORDER TO DATE

Quickstep recently announced that it has received new F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) purchase orders from global aerospace company Northrop Grumman Corporation during the third quarter 2012/13, under the long term agreements already signed with Northrop Grumman.

Quickstep will manufacture the JSF parts at its new Bankstown Airport facility, with delivery of most of these parts anticipated before the end of 2014.

NEW VIPAC TEST CAPABILITY

Member Vipac Engineers and Scientists have announced the MIL-S-901D medium weight test capability acquired as part of the former ADI test Laboratories, is available again to the defence industry. The facility, offers real world simulation of nearby explosions to maritime vessels, and provides the only commercially available capability of its type in the southern hemisphere to test shipboard equipment. The medium weight test system complements the

PACIFIC 2013:7 - 10 October, 2013

Sydney PACIFIC2013 International Maritime Exposition will coincide with the Royal Australian Navy’s anniversary celebrations of the arrival of the first Naval Fleet in Sydney Harbour. Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Australia http://www.pacific2013.com.au/

Quote of the month

"Pride is a personal commitment. It is an attitude which separates excellence from mediocrity." -Unknown source

Have you got a story or a news item to tell?

Anything from a recent success story to a new product or service, we want to hear about it.Why? So we can tell all our Member Companies about it, and also the many other people with an interest in the defence, security and aerospace sector who receive the AIDN Newsletter.

Articles are to be limited in size and submitted by email to [email protected]. This is a free service to members.

Can we help you?

If you would like any further information or require any assistance with defence industry issues, please contact the AIDN office::

AIDN, PO Box 334, Ashburton Vic 3147,Ph: 03.9885 [email protected]: 37 252 416 031 ARBN 115 614 803 www.aidn.org.au

DislaimerViews expressed in the AIDN Newsletter do not necessarily reflect the opinion of AIDN Inc. Not all third-party events included in the UPCOMING ACTIVITIES section are endorsed by AIDN. No responsibility is accepted by AIDN or the editor for the accuracy of information contained in the newsletter or the consequences of any person relying upon such information.

Advertising in the AIDN NewsletterWould you like to assist yourself and AIDN by advertising in the newsletter? The newsletter is circulated to more than 800 defence related companies in Australia, as well as Overseas Associations and key DMO decision makers. Advertisements of one column wide by half a column long can be booked at $170+GST per issue for members. Please contact Sue Smith to book your advertisement. We will continue to print newsworthy information for free under Members' News. [email protected]

existing MIL-S-901D light weight facility, shock and vibration capabilities that comprise Vipac’s extensive maritime equipment qualification capabilities. Vipac has received its first order in the facility from the Department of Defence to test the survivability of complex naval platform systems within a framework of total ship survivability.

APRIL AND MAY BREAKFASTS

At this stage, ideas for our next breakfasts are falling over as fast as we are thinking them up. However, we are still hopeful of one on 30th April, and another in June. Check out the Linedin Group and the Extranet for latest dates and topics.

AIDN NSW LINKEDIN GROUP

Join the group and see the latest topics at: http://www.linkedin.com/groupAnswers?viewQuestionAndAnswers=&discussionID=219625553&gid=4706367&trk=eml-anet_dig-b_nd-pst_ttle-cn&ut=0lqgA_g29EFlE1

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Your committee has not met since the last newsletter

AIDN-Queensland

AIDN-Qld NEWS

STRONG QUEENSLAND DEFENCE INDUSTRY TO BOOST ECONOMY

The Newman Government has launched a new defence industries unit and appointed a defence envoy in a bid to grow the local defence sector and attract more investment to Queensland. Queensland is the second-largest state for defence employment, home to a quarter of Australian Defence Force (ADF) military personnel and a 26 per cent share of national defence industry activity.

Premier Campbell Newman said the new Defence Industries Queensland (DIQ) unit would build on this and be a focal point for development of the sector in the state.

“To drive defence investment in the state’s economy, we have appointed Queensland’s first Defence Industries Envoy, Lindsay Pears” Newman said.

Pears started his career with the Royal Australian Air Force, followed by more than 25 years with leading defence contractors Ferranti, GEC Marconi and Boeing, and more recently as president of Saab Technologies Australia.

“Key components of the Envoy’s roles will be to provide expert advice to inform Queensland’s strategic approach, identify specific market opportunities and assist industry development activities that support access to them.” Courtesy of ADM

APA SELECTED AS RR300 ENGINE AMROC

Asia Pacific Aerospace (APA) has been selected by Rolls-Royce to become

an Authorised Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Centre (AMROC) for the support of the RR 300 engine for the Australasia region.

The RR300 engine embodies new technology and advanced design methodology. The RR300, with take-off power and performance of 300 shp, was unveiled in 2007 and currently is in production for the R66 helicopter manufactured by Robinson Helicopter Company in Torrance, CA. The engine draws on the proven record of the Rolls-Royce M250 turbine engines to deliver a powerful and dependable engine at a competitive price.

As a Rolls-Royce M250 and RR300 AMROC, APA provides comprehensive in house maintenance services to support various operators across the world. APA is authorised to carry out specialised major and critical component repairs, a full range of aviation and non-aviation machining, welding and metal spraying as well as the repair, testing and overhaul of the Rolls-Royce M250 series engine fuel components. Courtesy of ADM

ATK AND NIOA FORM JOINT VENTURE TO CAPTURE DMMA CONTRACT

NIOA and ATK have agreed to form ATK-NIOA Munitions (ATK-NIOA), an Australian-based joint venture company to deliver a commercially viable business model to the Australian Commonwealth in support of the Domestic Munitions Manufacturing Arrangements (DMMA).

The DMMA project seeks to establish a successor operator for the Benalla Munitions facility in regional Victoria and the Mulwala Explosives and Propellant facility in regional New South Wales. ATK-NIOA has submitted a proposal in response to a RFP issued by the Australian Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) to be operators of both the Benalla and Mulwala facilities for a potential 10-year contract period.

“The formation of ATK-NIOA munitions will create a new major defence prime contractor in Australia supported by one of the largest Defence and Aerospace companies in the world. The competitive landscape for Defence contractors and for DMO will change overnight,” says Robert Nioa, managing director of NIOA. “Tapping in to ATK’s global sales network is going to create jobs and export opportunities for the Benalla and Mulwala facilities without a doubt, but the company will be focused on long-term growth beyond the immediate DMMA opportunity.”

ATK is the world’s largest manufacturer of ammunition, and NIOA is Australia’s largest distributor of commercial and law enforcement ammunition. ATK-NIOA delivers viable commercial operations in Australia by making products relevant for the Australian Defence Force, introducing new commercial products, and optimising the productive capacity of the facilities. The Benalla and Mulwala facilities will be integrated into ATK’s Global Supply Chain, providing a home for new products and expanding the company’s capabilities and production capacity. ATK’s munitions representatives, distributors and sales network in 100 countries around the world will provide an outlet for Australian-made products.

ATK is the majority stakeholder in ATK-NIOA and will have operational control. ATK will contribute process, product, and facilities engineering expertise and integrate DMMA facilities’ products into its global sales portfolio. NIOA, which is Australia’s largest ammunition supplier to the police forces and for the private market, will manage the sales, marketing and distribution functions for the joint venture.

DEFENCE TEAMING CENTRE (DTC)

DTC NEWS

PRATT & WHITNEY RECEIVES FIRST ENGINE COMPONENTS FROM LEVETT ENGINEERING FOR RAAF'S FIRST F-35 LIGHTNING II

Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corporation announced that Levett Engineering has delivered their first engine components that will be installed into F135 engines for the fifth generation F-35 Lightning II aircraft.

Levett Engineering, a precision component manufacturer located in Adelaide, South Australia, was awarded a contract in 2008 to manufacture second and third-stage turbine vane tubes and covers for the F135 engine.

"We have a truly global supply chain strategy for the F135 engine, and Levett Engineering is a key supplier for the program in Australia," said Howie Chandler, vice president, Military Engines, Business Development at Pratt & Whitney. "The success of the F135 program relies on companies like Levett Engineering to provide high quality products at competitive prices."

"We are only in the early stages of our partnership with Pratt & Whitney, but we're looking forward to a relationship that will extend well into the future," said Paul Levett, Managing Director, Levett Engineering. "Our contribution to the F135 engine helps ensure jobs and technology-know how remain an essential part of our local industry, and a key support to the needs of the Australian Defence Force."

FRAZER-NASH CONSULTANCY SUPPORTS AIR 9000 PHASE 8

Engineering consultancy Frazer-Nash has been appointed to work with Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) on a project to replace the current Seahawk ‘Classic’ helicopters with new Naval Combat helicopters. Project Air 9000 Phase 8 will deliver 24 MH-60R Seahawk Romeo helicopters and associated mission and support systems, with an initial operating capability by the third quarter of 2015. The helicopters will provide the Royal Australian Navy with the next generation maritime aviation combat capability.

The new Romeo helicopters will be able to operate from the flight decks of Navy’s frigates and destroyers in rough seas, by day or night. The Romeo will be integrated into the ANZAC Class frigates and the Air Warfare Destroyers, currently being developed and built in Adelaide.

Frazer-Nash Consultancy is representing the project in the ANZAC Class Systems Program Office, which is responsible for in-service aspects including maintenance and implementing capability upgrades. Frazer-Nash will lead the Integration System Safety Program, which involves the implementation of new lighting, power and weapons magazine systems and products onto the existing platforms, allowing for safe and effective use of the new Romeo helicopters with the ANZAC class ships.

Frazer-Nash Australia Consultant Simon Hollick said: “Frazer-Nash is extremely pleased to be using our naval safety management skills and aerospace capability to expand our work in this field in Australia. We are drawing on our specialist experience in ship-air integration to deliver a world class outcome on this project.”

AIDN-Victoria

AIDN-Vic NEW MEMBERS

Since March the following 6 new members have joined AIDN-Vic. They are:

Applied CCM Pty Ltd

Applied CCM specialise in the application, support, training and development of OpenFOAM. OpenFOAM is open source software used for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation.

We also are the agents for the Pointwise meshing products, used in the pre-processing stage of CFD simulations. Our staff are highly proficient in the use of CFD for solving engineering problems.

http://www.appliedccm.com.au

� Accessing grant funding for marketing expenses-up to $150,000 per annum for 8 years.

� Managing the Australian presence at selected major international trade fairs, across a range of industry sectors.

Connectronics (VIC) Pty Ltd

Connectronics specialises in custom-made complex military wiring harness & cable assemblies. We manufacture wire harnesses of all types, from miniature wire subassemblies to the large, complex wire harnesses used in helicopters, fighter jets and military vehicles.

Many of these harnesses have hundreds of components & connectors that require precision soldering and crimping, and must perform flawlessly under highly rugged conditions.

Connectronics manufacturing process includes many specialised functions, including cutting & following cables to specific lengths, routing the proper insulators for wiring applications, connector placements, wire marking, shunting, welding, moulding and soldering.

http://www.connectronics.com.au

Export Solutions Pty Ltd

Export Solutions is a private company that assists Australian businesses develop export markets for their products, services and IP through services;

We are well connected with industry bodies and government agencies. We know how the grant process works, and can help companies maximise their grant funding, including advice on the grant, providing a Kit that simplifies the collation of documents, ensuring a quality application is lodged, and working through the audit process using our years of knowledge of the legislation, guidelines and decisions on prior year applications.

Many Australian companies are seeking export markets, either for their existing products and services, or to diversify into other sectors using technology and skills they have developed.

We know how trade fairs work, and how companies can best use them to target new markets.

http://www.exportsolutions.com.au

Fire Protection Technologies

Fire Protection Technologies is a specialist fire protection company focused on the protection and of unique and special hazard applications and fire risks. With our extensive expertise in providing design and engineering solutions we strive to provide the right solution for any given hazard, this may include multiple solutions.

Our aim is to provide design driven solutions and to educate our customers on their options including advantages enabling our customer to make an informed decision on what product best serves and meets their needs.

Technical support, design and engineering assistance will be available for the life of the product; our staff and product managers regularly attend product training with all out manufacturers enabling us to maintain the highest level of up to date local support and technical assistance.

Local product training and education for consulting engineers, contractors, service technicians and end users to ensure the highest quality installation, technical support, design and engineering assistance is provided during the development, installation and commissioning of a project.

With offices and warehouses in Melbourne (Head Office), Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Auckland and Singapore including regional managers for South Australia, Tasmania, and Northern Territory and with future growth through Asia Pacific region, Fire Protection Technologies continues to develop infrastructure to support all of our customers and their needs

http://www.fire-protection.com.au

Karcher Pty Ltd

Karcher provide a large range of cleaning equipment from High Pressure Water Cleaners, Sweepers, Scubbers, Vacuums and more.

Karcher FutureTech provide specialised equipment such as Decontamination Units, Mobile Catering-Kitchens, Mobile Sanitary & Laundry Units, Field Camps Heating & Cooling Units for camps, Water Purification Units, Water Storage, Water Packing Systems & Bottling Plants.

FutureTech is aimed at servicing Military & Emergency Services needs.

http://www.karcher.com.au

Specialised Composite Components

Specialised Composite Components (SCC) is a versatile composite component manufacturer based in Melbourne. We can happily assist our clients with their concepts, however big or small, and bring their ideas to life with creativity and passion.

We have a strong expertise in plugs, moulds and quality product making. Our philosophy is quite simple, there is not much that we cannot make! SCC currently has its own in-house quality system, but by the end of 2013 we will be fully ISO-9001 Quality Certified.

Our current customer base encompasses sophisticated aircraft components, the transport industry (including public transport and marine) and industrial architecture.

[email protected]

AIDN-Vic MEMBERS' NEWS

BRENCO TO RECEIVE NADCAP™ ACCREDITATION

Australian owned and Melbourne based company Brenco Aerospace has successfully completed the elements of the audit process required for accreditation to the Nadcap™ quality system.

Nadcap™ is the leading worldwide cooperative program of major companies designed to manage a cost effective consensus approach to special processes and to provide continual improvement within the Aerospace and Defence industries.

For Brenco the accreditation is for HVOF Thermal Spray coatings, Metallurgical Laboratory and the Nadcap™ quality system AC 7004. The event follows on from the recent commissioning of new generation HVOF and Robotic technology as part of the New Air Combat Capability (NACC) program for participation in the JSF program. www.brenco.com.au

ITT EXELIS TO PROVIDE ESM FOR ANZAC AND LHD

ITT Exelis has been awarded a contract valued at more than $102 million to provide the Electronic Support Measures (ESM) suite for the RAN’s Anzac frigates and the Canberra class LHD ships.

This is the company’s second major contract in recent years to provide electronic warfare systems to the RAN; Exelis was previously awarded the contract for the ESM suite for the AWD program. The work for these key contracts will be performed by the Exelis Electronic Systems, radar, reconnaissance and undersea systems business area from its Morgan Hill, California location.

In January AIDN-Vic member C4i formally joined the ITT Exelis company.

BAE AWARDED TECH TRAINING CONTRACT

The Australian Defence Force has signed a $107 million five-year contract with BAE Systems Australia to provide Aviation Technical Training services.

The aviation technical training services contract has been awarded to BAE Systems Australia Ltd who has sub-contracted the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and Pennant Pty Ltd in support of the services contract.

“This contract means that BAE Systems Australia will train about 900 students annually at the RAAF School of Technical Training at RAAF Base Wagga, NSW,” Minister for Defence Materiel Dr Mike Kelly said.

The contract is for initial training for technicians and maintainers for all aviation-related trades, and a range of postgraduate courses, for aircraft and helicopters

operated by Army, Navy and Air Force, Dr Kelly explained.

“The design of the new contract provides BAE with a high level of autonomy and responsibility for the delivery of the training.

“BAE will be introducing a contemporary training environment supported by modern training systems,” Dr Kelly said.

MILITARY TPA UPGRADE

For 30 yrs the Australian Army depended on the TPA tank and pump assemblies to deliver fuel for training exercises and operations.

Built by NVE in the late 1980's and early 1990's and based on the Alfons HaarKPA400 design, they provided a compact stand alone fuelling platform which stood the test of time in service.

As part of JP2059 Phase 2, 141 TPAs are now being refurbished. Haar Australia is supplying replacements for several of the major components which made the original Tank and Pump Assemblies such a success, and we look forward to supporting them well into the future.

REDUCING THE SOLDIER’S WEIGHT BURDEN WITH

PORTABLE FUEL CELLS

DMTC Program 7 Project: Portable Power Generation recently achieved a major milestone with the development of a Field Fuel Cell (FFC). Working with DSTO and VCAMM, industry partner Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies designed and built a laboratory prototype FFC capable of producing 912Wh of energy. The FFC was developed to provide an in-field capability for charging the 24V batteries typical of those carried by ADF soldiers. On a 72 hour patrol, a soldier can carry up to 18 batteries weighing 65kg in total. The FFC can provide enough charging capacity to potentially reduce the battery weight burden for a 72 hour patrol by 45kg. Instead of storing hydrogen gas, the FFC utilizes a liquid chemical feedstock from which hydrogen is extracted on the go, making it ideally suited for the rugged military environment.

Taras Wankewycz, Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies commented that, “We are very pleased to work with Australia’s DMTC on reducing the battery weight burden of the modern soldier. We are confident our solutions will help extend mission endurance and increase soldier safety, often limited by today’s battery capacities”.

MACHINING OF DIRECT MANUFACTURED TITANIUM

PARTS

The cost to machine titanium parts for aerospace applications continues to be partially driven by the significant amount of wasted material. DMTC is continuing its efforts to investigate alternate direct manufacturing processes including the application of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW).

The team of researchers at the Unversity of Wollongong have deposited several layers of melted titanium wire on a titanium plate through GTAW process. This layered piece of titanium was then subjected to several machining trials at Seco Tools’ Technical Centre in collaboration with researchers from Swinburne University and The University of Queensland. Shielding gas techniques have been applied to avoid oxygen pick-up during this process. Initial results show that the direct manufactured titanium part can be machined in a similar way to wrought titanium alloys, with potential advantages including a reduction in machining time due to the elimination of rough cutting operations and an increase in tool life. Further research into these possible advantages is being undertaken at the University of Wollongong using a robotic machining process.

VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT NEWS

2013 VICTORIAN MANUFACTURING HALL OF FAME

GALA DINNER JUNE 6

The 2013 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Gala Dinner will be held on Thursday, June 6 at the Palladium Ballroom, Crown Entertainment Centre.

More details including ticketing information will be available soon - in the interim, please save the date for what promises to be a great night to network with your peers and to recognise excellence in manufacturing.

AIDN-Western Australia

AIDN-WA MEMBERS’ NEWS

HELICOPTER RESCUE SYSTEM PUT TO THE TEST

A lightweight, detachable emergency floating device that will enable a helicopter to remain afloat after ditching in the sea was demonstrated at HMAS Stirling.

A helicopter airframe was used to test the performance of the Pegasus Aircraft Buoyancy System. The Pegasus Aircraft Buoyancy System was developed by L-3 Oceania and One Atmosphere Pty Ltd under the Capability and Technology Demonstrator (CTD) Program managed by DSTO. The system can lift an aircraft weighing 10 tonnes to the surface from a depth of up to 10 metres. It then keeps the aircraft afloat for four hours, increasing the opportunity for crew to escape safely.

The Pegasus flotation device weighs less than 50 kilograms, has no wired connection to the aircraft, and can operate automatically or under pilot control.

Mr Duncan Watson, Deputy Director of the CTD Program Office, has recognised the project as a significant development in aircraft buoyancy innovation.

“Pegasus addresses Defence’s desire for Army helicopters to have the ability to stay afloat should they ditch into the water whilst undertaking maritime operations and when operating from Navy ships,” Mr Watson said.

While many medium to large helicopters are fitted with permanent emergency flotation systems, these are heavy and can affect aircraft performance. Pegasus has the potential to reduce the weight burden for existing aircraft, plus increase the safety for smaller helicopters conducting training and operations over water. Such a capability will become essential as Army will be using rotary wing aircraft from the new Landing Helicopter Dock ships in the future. The demonstration of the Pegasus system included a life-size airframe that replicated the buoyancy and centre of gravity of a medium size helicopter, such as the Army's ARH Tiger.

DEFENCE INDUSTRY NEWS

CENTRE FOR FOOD INNOVATION OPEN FOR

BUSINESS

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon, today joined the Member for Bass, Geoff Lyons, to launch the Centre for Food Innovation in Launceston.

MHR Geoff Lyons and the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon at the launch of the Centre for Food Innovation.

Mr Snowdon said it was an important initiative that would provide a major boost to the food research industry, as well as the defence force.

“The cutting edge work that will be carried out by researchers here in Launceston will potentially have a real impact on the kinds of food that fuel our defence men and women on operations across the globe,” Mr Snowdon said.

Headed by Professor Roger Stanley, the centre brings together the expertise of nutritionists and food technologists from the University of Tasmania, the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and CSIRO.

Mr Lyons said the centre will provide significant benefits to regional Tasmania.

“In addition to the potential for creating jobs in the food and agricultural sector, it will provide an opportunity for local industry to contribute to the production of ration pack components for the Defence force,” Mr Lyons said.

“The Centre for Food Innovation will also enable DSTO to grow its capabilities

in food science and technology at Scottsdale.”

Mr Snowdon said the Australian Government had invested $18.7 million into the DSTO Scottsdale facility.

A preliminary project undertaken under the banner of the Centre for Food Innovation is focused on the development of high-pressure processing technologies for increasing the shelf-life of pears.

“The Centre for Food Innovation will provide real opportunities for regional collaboration and I encourage local producers to engage,” Mr Snowdon said.

AUSTRALIA BECOMES A PARTY TO THE

CONVENTION ON CLUSTER MUNITIONS

Australia has become a party to the Convention on Cluster Munitions with legislation commencing on 1 April 2013 making it an offence in Australia to develop, keep or transfer land mines or cluster munitions. Bob Carr said the Criminal Code Amendment (Cluster Munitions Prohibition) Act 2012 ensured Australian law was consistent with international obligations under the Convention, including the ban on cluster munitions and delivery of a framework for victim assistance and stockpile destruction.

ARMS TRADE TREATY APPROVED

Foreign Minister Bob Carr recently welcomed the success of the Australian campaign for an Arms Trade Treaty to crack down on the global illicit arms trade, with the Treaty passing the UN General Assembly by 154 votes to 3.

The Treaty imposes new controls on illicit cross-border dealings in weapons such as attack helicopters, missile launchers, automatic rifles, hand guns and rocket-propelled grenades.

Australia was one of the 7 original co-authors who sponsored the first UN General Assembly resolution in 2006.

Speaking from Jakarta, Senator Carr said Australia’s efforts would now go towards securing the 50 ratifications necessary to bring the Treaty into force worldwide.

“Today we’ve secured a comprehensive agreement on arms control —enforceable through public reporting to the UN and aimed at reducing the continued flow of conventional weapons to rogue groups and terrorists.” Senator Carr said.

“The Treaty will be open for signature on June 3 2013. Australia will be one of the first to sign.

“Each day there are around 2,000 deaths in conflicts fuelled by illegally traded arms. Yet as Amnesty International points out, global trade in some foods is more strictly regulated than trade in weapons.

The Arms Trade Treaty sets up a global reporting system for international arms sales, to prevent the flow of weapons to rogue states and terrorist groups. It does not affect domestic arms sales.

The Treaty also requires states to consider the risk of arms transfers facilitating serious acts of violence against women and children, before allowing those transfers to proceed.

DEFENCE AND HEALTH SIGN AGREEMENT ON

MEDICAL COUNTERMEASURES

In November 2012, Minister for Defence Science and Personnel Warren Snowdon and Minister for Health Tanya Plibersek announced an agreement which would enable the Department of Defence and the Department of Health and Ageing to prepare for the establishment of a Medical Countermeasures Consortium involving Australia, USA, UK and Canada.

“The proposed Consortium will coordinate scientific research in developing medical responses across the defence, national security and public health sectors in our four countries,” Minister Snowdon said.

“This initiative will augment Australia’s ability to manage the consequences of pandemics, emerging infectious diseases, extreme natural hazards and incidents involving Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) threats.”

Medical countermeasures include drugs, vaccines and diagnostic devices to protect against and treat diseases such as Ebola or Dengue, and deal with injuries caused by CBR incidents.

“Medical countermeasures are required in areas where diseases, chemicals and other hazards may impact ADF personnel as well as the local population or the Australian public.”

Participation in the Consortium will enable Australia to stay abreast of

diagnostic and therapeutic developments, act quickly on deploying appropriate treatments, and achieve significant cost savings by accessing the results of joint research and development with the other countries.

JSF MODEL TO STUDY ELECTROMAGNETIC EFFECTS

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon, today unveiled a full-scale model of the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) which DSTO will use to study the effects of electromagnetic compatibility and interference on the aircraft.

Called Iron Bird, the Australian-built model will be tested under simulated electromagnetic conditions during the acquisition and through-life sustainment of the JSF.

The study is a significant part of ensuring the protection of the JSF against electromagnetic environmental effects such as lightning and static discharge which can impair the performance and safety of aircraft.

The JSF is a fifth-generation aircraft with highly complex electronics, sophisticated software and a structural airframe made of composite materials. This exposes the aircraft to electromagnetic interference from both naturally occurring phenomena and man-made sources, including telecommunication transmissions and radar. The impact of these interferences needs to be well understood and appropriately managed.

DSTO has developed world-class expertise in the investigation of electromagnetic radiation impact on aircraft and is engaged directly with the United States JSF Joint Project Office to undertake this study using the Iron Bird model.

The data captured will help in providing potential reductions in the cost of owning the JSF fleet and enhancing the aircraft’s capability.

The DSTO test methods provide a rapid, cost-effective means of assessing and monitoring the JSF’s ability to withstand electromagnetic exposure and minimise any impact on its systems and performance. The research will support the verification for compliance and airworthiness certification for the JSF aircraft.

Australia’s first two F-35As are due to be delivered to a United States-based

training facility during 2014-15 when Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) pilot

and maintainer training will commence on the aircraft.

GENERAL NEWS

PERSONNEL CHANGES

Larry Lawson, the executive VP of Lockheed Martin’s aeronautical business, is leaving to be replaced by Orlando Carvalho, the GM of the F-35 program. His position with the JSF is now with Lorraine Martin who was the F-35’s deputy program manager.

Lockheed Martin has announced the appointment of three new members to its Lockheed Martin Australia board of directors.

The new board members include Gary North, vice president for customer requirements, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics; Dale P. Bennett, executive vice president, Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training (MST); and Sondra Barbour, executive vice president, Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global Solutions (IS&GS).

North joins the board from Lockheed Martin Aeronautics where his primary responsibility is ensuring Lockheed Martin fulfills U.S. government and international F-35 program customer requirements. He is also responsible for ensuring that all needs and requirements are met for F-35 industrial partners around the world.

Bennett joins the board from MST where he oversees the execution of programs for the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy.

In addition, Bennett also oversees Lockheed Martin’s military and commercial training systems offerings, including those being developed for the F-35 Lightning II.

Barbour joins the board from IS&GS, where she leads a team that provides integrated information technology solutions, systems and services to support civil, defense, intelligence and other government customers in all 50 U.S. states and 20 countries around the world.

Dean Rosenfield has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Saab Systems. Rosenfield has been with Saab since 2001; most recently in the role of general manager civil security where he has grown the business considerably with large contracts in Queensland and NZ.

Saab’s previous managing director in Australia, Richard Price, has been promoted to manage the Security Management and Secure Communications business in Sweden.

General Sir Nicholas Houghton will succeed General Sir David Richards as the UK's next Chief of the Defence Staff in July 2013.

BMT Group has appointed David Bright, sector director for defence following the retirement of David Rainford. Bright has been with BMT since 2001, as director of operations at BMT Sigma since 2003 and as managing director of BMT Hi-Q Sigma since 2010.

At its first formal meeting following the recent completion of the corporate governance changes - entered into by the Company and other parties on 5 December 2012 - the new EADS Board of Directors has elected Denis Ranque as its chairman and reappointed Tom Enders as CEO, whilst approving an 18-month share repurchase programme up to €3.75 billion.

AIDN ACTIVITIES LIST FOR 2013

April 30 DMO/AIDN-Vic Defence Update AIDN-Vic

May 62013 Integrated Soldier Systems Branch Industry Forum Melbourne

8 AIDN-Vic Office Bearers Meeting AIDN-Vic

14 AIDN-Vic IMAGINiT Breakfast AIDN-Vic

21AIDN-NT Breakfast - Mark Reynolds, Head Commercial Industry Programs, DMO

AIDN-NT

31 AIDN-Vic CTD Breakfast AIDN-Vic

June 4 AIDN-Vic BBQ at Electromold AIDN-Vic

12 AIDN NSW AGM MLC Centre Sydney AIDN-NSW

20 AIDN National Meeting Brisbane AIDN

October 7-9 Pacific 2013 Darling Harbour

10 AIDN National Meeting Sydney AIDN

10 Annual Dinner Four Seasons The Rocks AIDN-NSW

29AIDN-NT Gala Dinner, Darwin Convention Centre

AIDN-NT

December 5 AIDN National Meeting Launceston AIDN

Contact your local AIDN Chapter for more info on the above activities:

AIDN NationalPhone: 03.9885 [email protected]

AIDN-CanberraPhone: 02.6283 [email protected]

AIDN-NSWPhone: 0421 345 [email protected]

AIDN-NTPhone: +61 8 8947 [email protected]

AIDN-QldPhone: 041 222 [email protected]

AIDN-TasPhone: [email protected]

AIDN-VicPhone: 03.9886 [email protected]

AIDN-WAPhone: 08 9427 [email protected]

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