JULY 2012 Forward to a friend Visit AIDN Website

NATIONAL NEWSLETTER No 6 of 2012

AIDN trusts that you will enjoy reading the second AIDN newsletter in its new format. We would be interested to hear from members as to whether you like the new format and any feedback for improvement would be much appreciated.

In this issue

AIDN NATIONAL NEWS AIDN-CANBERRA

AIDN-ACT NEW MEMBER AIDN-NEW SOUTH WALES

AIDN-NSW NEW MEMBERS AIDN-NSW MEMBERS' NEWS

AIDN-NORTHERN TERRITORY AIDN-NT NEW MEMBERS

AIDN-NT NEWS AIDN-QUEENSLAND

AIDN-QLD NEW MEMBERS 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

MESSAGE FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Dear AIDN Member

Hello, I trust that you and your business are well. The past two months has seen a number of Government announcements and initiatives which may have

AIDN National Meeting

The next AIDN National Meeting is scheduled to be held in Darwin on Thursday 6 September 2012.

This will be followed by the AIDN-NT Gala Dinner on Friday 7 September 2012.

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 sue.smith@aidn.org.au

Upcoming Activities

ADM Defence Support Services Summit 7-8 August 2012

Langham Hotel Melbourne. It is a must attend event for any organisation currently doing business with DSG, or for those wanting to gain a foothold in the service delivery of defence support, particularly at a time when innovation in service delivery is at the forefront of measures to cut costs and improve service delivery efficiency.AIDN has negotiated a special rate for members visit www.admevents.com.au/dss/aidnin order to obtain the special rate.

CPA Defence ConferenceAdelaide 21-22 August 2012

Adelaide. With ever shrinking budgets and more contracts moving overseas, business opportunities within the Defence industry are becoming far more competitive. Does your organisation have the framework to adapt to this new climate? Strengthen your operating model by attending the Australian defence industry conference 2012. Acquire new techniques to lower costs and improve processes, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the global influences impacting the Defence industry. Plus there'll be in-depth master-classes and keynotes from industry leaders including David Kilcullen, President and CEO, Caerus Associates. AIDN has negotiated a special member's rate to attend this conference. Contact

Please contact Graham Priestnall, Senior Consultant/Business Development, Phone: +61 2 6239 2666 or Graham.Priestnall@NovaSystems.com

a significant impact on the Australian defence industry and defence industry SMEs in particular. The reductions in the Defence budget over the forward estimates will have a significant impact on the amount of acquisition and sustainment work 'flowing' to the defence industry. Unfortunately, AIDN's analysis predicts that the situation will not improve for at least the next 12 to 18 months. Additionally, AIDN will be involved in the development of Defence White Paper 2013, with the intent to have greater defence industry SME considerations in this White Paper than the previous edition.

AIDN's contribution to the defence industry policy debate has been vigorous and public in the period, with AIDN's opinion being sought by journalist from several national and overseas daily papers and magazines. Much of this interest has been generated by the recent release of the AIDN SME participation plan (SMEPP), which is discussed in the following paragraphs. I wish you all the best in what are challenging times for defence industry SMEs.

Graham PriestnallPresident, AIDN National

AIDN SME PARTICIPATION PLAN (SMEPP)

By now you should have received a copy of the AIDN SME Participation Plan, (SMEPP).

The Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN) officially launched its SME Participation Plan for the defence and security industry, at the AIDN-QLD annual dinner in Brisbane on Thursday, 21 June 2012. The primary objective of the Plan is the establishment and maintenance of an Australian defence and national security industry base with the depth, capability and viability to cost effectively contribute to the achievement of the necessary level of Australian defence self reliance.

The Plan makes recommendations on six key issues which, if supported by Government, will increase defence industry SMEs participation in providing innovative and 'leading edge' capability solutions to the ADF.

In launching the SMEPP, AIDN National President Graham Priestnall stated 'that the plan's development was a result of a collaborative effort of the eight AIDN Chapters. Priestnall recognised the contribution of former National President Michael Turner and current National Vice-President Mark Smith for the Plan's conception and the more recent contributions of former National Secretary Robert Tonkin and current AIDN-NSW Executive Officer John Small for coordinating the development of the Plan.

Priestnall said that 'over the past four years, AIDN National has given serious consideration to issues surrounding the defence industry SME's participation in supporting the development and sustainment of ADF capability and the development of defence industry policy initiatives which support Australian defence industry SME's access to and participation in the Australian defence industry'.

The SMEPP recognises several of the relatively recent Government policy initiatives that seek to support Australian defence industry SMEs. The Plan's recommendations will further enhance these initiatives and provide confidence to Australia defence industry SMEs that the policies will reach the stated goals. AIDN fully understands that the role of the Australian defence industry is to provide and sustain effective capability for the ADF. However, in AIDN's opinion some of the current practises and implementation of defence industry policy prevents Australian defence industry SMEs in fulfilling their potential to deliver and sustain this capability.

AIDN-CANBERRA

AIDN-ACT NEW MEMBER

admin@aidn.org.au for more details. cpaaustralia.com.au/defence

ADM Defence Workforce Participation Conference27 – 28 September

Hyatt Hotel, Canberra ADM's annual Defence Skilling Summit, now renamed, is an important event examining the issues of training and maintaining a skilled workforce for Australia's defence industry. It's an event not to be missed! Further Information: ADM Events - Jamie Burrage, Phone: 02 9080 4321; Email: jamie.burrage@informa.com.auWeb: www.admevents.com.au

AUSA Annual Meeting &Exposition 22-24 October

Walter E. Washington Convention Center Washington DCThe AUSA exposition is an annual defence exhibition and the largest land exposition in North America. The exposition brings together senior military personnel from the US Army, US Army Commands, the US Department of Defense, the US Congress and foreign defence officials. All land defence primes and sub-primes will be represented at AUSA 2012 in addition to the broader US land defence industry. Team Australia is planning to support this event. Contact Linus Ryrie for more info linus.ryrie@defence.gov.auWeb: www.ausa.org

U.S.-UK-CANADA-AUSTRALIA Quadrilateral Conference Special Relationships in Defence Trade Thursday 25 October Washington DC

Australian, American, British and Canadian defense industries have a shared history of business cooperation and investment that dates back decades and continues today. All sides have prospered from their past and ongoing business relationships and the industries of all four countries have played an important role in support of their armed forces in Afghanistan where co-operation between the four nations has been vital for success. Please contact AIDN admin@aidn.org.au for more info.

Land Warfare Conference 2012 29 Oct – 2 Nov

The Land Warfare Conference is a major event for users, providers, academics, designers & manufacturers to meet, present, share & exchange new & visionary ideas on Land Systems. Academics, commercial organisations, defence research institutions, & military are encouraged to attend and/or offer papers in the field of Land Warfare & related disciplines. An Exhibitor

Nova Systems

Nova Systems is an Australian owned Professional Service Provider specialising in provision of engineering and management services, providing industry and government with world class independent expertise in delivering complex projects and solving technologically challenging problems. Our independence from equipment providers means we are solution independent and highly focused on value outcomes for clients. We pursue this value through effective stakeholder solicitation and focus on understanding the outcomes our clients aim to achieve. Nova employs specialist consultants across Australia, with offices in all major cities.

Toner Express

Toner Express is an Australian owned and operated business that started right here in Canberra 25 years ago. While our main focus has been printer consumables such as ink, toner and copy paper, in recent years we have expanded into device hardware and Managed Print Solutions. Toner Expressbelieves strongly in supporting Australian business and initiating green practices, which combine into our range of Toner Express Green Alternative cartridges. These cartridges are remanufactured to the highest standards using Australian labour and recycling as much as possible. Green Alternative cartridges not only reduce waste and your carbon footprint, they will save you a significant amount of your printing budget, often up to 40%! So whether you need paper, toner, a new multi-function printer or an office-wide Managed Print Solution, Toner Express will be able to help

Website: www.tonerexpress.com.auFacebook: www.facebook.com/TonerExpressAustralasia

AIDN-NEW SOUTH WALES

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Hello again from the NSW chapter.

The last few weeks has seen our focus move more strongly onto working with others to improve opportunities in the defence sector. The most obvious evidence of this was in our recent joint function with Hunternet and, behind the scenes, we are working to ensure a more coordinated approach from industry in support of a continued emphasis on defence with the NSW Government. You’ll hear more of this soon.

Also just released is the application paperwork for the AIDN-NSW Young Achiever Award. With great sponsorship from Goal, Snap-on and Living Planit, and support from the NSW Government, successful awards are almost guaranteed. The one element still to be achieved though is for the membership to seize on this opportunity for its young achievers. Without the talent being nominated, the effort to date could be lost and a great opportunity missed. So please take the time to nominate the best in your organisation.

That brings us to our Annual Dinner on 20th September where our Young Achiever will be announced. The organising committee has been working hard as in previous years so please put 20th September at The Four Seasons in your diary and look forward to a great event. You may even be celebrating your very own Young Achiever on the night.

RegardsAlan RankinsNSW President

JOINT FUNCTION WITH HUNTERNET - JULY

On Wednesday 10th July about 20 representatives from your committee and the membership attended the joint function in Newcastle and discussed closer cooperation with Hunternet. All agreed the day was a success

DEFENCE UPDATE FOR INDUSTRY – 23rd JULY

As this newsletter goes to print, AIDN-NSW is supporting the BAO’s latest Update. With well over 100 registered and an outstanding program, there is something in this Update for everyone.

Booth Registration Form & Floor Plan are now available online.Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. www.dsto.defence.gov.au/lwc2012/

Quote of the month

"There is no reason for any individual to have a computer in his home." – Ken Olsen co-founder Digital Equipment Corporation 1977

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 sue.smith@aidn.org.au. 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 0907admin@aidn.org.auABN: 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. sue.smith@aidn.org.au

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AUGUST BREAKFAST

A breakfast visit to the School of Military Engineering is planned for August. Details will be provided shortly.

ANNUAL DINNER

Our popular annual dinner is well into the planning phase. Please put Thursday 20th September at the Four Seasons Hotel, The Rocks in your diaries for this.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Your committee met on 16th May. Major outcome was:

With the reduction in staffing at NSW Trade & Investment, including the departure of Anne Glover and Steve Kerlander, AIDN-NSW will invite other NSW industry organisations to join in providing advice and services to the Government to reduce the impact of losing them and ensure continued support to the defence sector. To date, almost all organisations approached have agreed to meet to explore further.

Your committee, on behalf of all members, has congratulated Anne and Steve on the great support provided over the years.

AIDN-NSW NEW MEMBERS

The following 4 new members have joined AIDN-NSW.

Agilient

Agilient is an Australian consulting firm comprising expert consultants applying world class techniques for Defence and other customers. We work with clients to help them make better decisions, convert those decisions to actions and deliver the success they seek. We are passionate about achieving better practice results, which are uniquely tailored, pragmatic, risk based and enduring.

Agilient consultants have been responsible for the development of some of Australia's best known standards, management systems and supporting business improvement techniques relating to corporate governance, compliance management, risk management, quality, safety and environmental management.

Our areas of speciality include:

� Integrated Management Systems Design and Implementation. � Effectiveness and Compliance Reviews, Audits and Improvements. � Supply Chain Optimisation and Process Engineering. � Management Strategy and Strategic Governance. � Intelligence System Design and Implementation. � Program and Project Management. � Organisational Risk Management and Resilience:

� Security Risk Assessment and Management. � Crisis and Emergency Management. � Pandemic Management � Business Continuity Management. � IT/ICT Disaster Recovery Management.

Our principals and core consultants are ex-senior ADF Officers and Defence Industry general, logistics, security and risk managers, so we are appreciative of the limitations, constraints, opportunities and processes that exist when assisting Defence; most importantly, we have a strong understanding in how and where such knowledge and experience can be used to best effect, in support of Defence’s objectives

For more information please contact: Mark BezzinaPhone 02 9751 0148, Email: mark@agilient.com.au

FAVCOTE PROTECTIVE COATINGS

Favcote Pty Ltd provides a diverse range of services in the application of protective coatings predominantly on Marine and Naval vessels on the East Coast of Australia. These services also include the application of Marine flooring compounds, hazardous paint removal and metal preservation.

Favcote also provide similar protective coating services on industrial projects utilising low dust Sponge – jet abrasive blasting techniques and also specialise in the application of Intumescent coatings.

A workshop in Western Sydney also caters for abrasive blasting and protective coatings application and serves as a base for commercial painting and building maintenance in which our services range from wallpaper hanging to special effects and textured coatings.

For further information please contact: Bruno Favretti (Managing Director)Mobile: 0418252345Email: bruno@favcote.com.auWebsite: www.favcote.com.au

Land Air Sea Space Pty Ltd (LASS)

Are specialists in design and manufacturer of electrical cable assemblies and panels.

All assemblies are manufactured and tested by trained staff at our well equipped production facility in Brookvale, North Sydney, NSW.

Working in close partnership with our customers and utilising our design and engineering capability LASS can help take concepts to manufactured products, which meet customer's performance and quality requirements. A "can do will do" attitude under pins our commitment to supporting customers with rapid response to urgent or developing requirements.

We have an established supply chain and stock a wide range of mil-spec components; wire, sleeve and heat shrink moulded parts, which enable us to support customers with spare parts, prototypes and repairs.

For further information please contact: Graham on Phone: 02 9939 0009 or Email: graham@landairseaspace.com.au

The Star Group

The Star Group is a privately owned electrical and data communications business. Involved with large commercial electrical works, The Star Group is

committed to servicing end-users, building owners and client relationships that were developed during the construction of the building. Over the past 50 years the Company has been involved with some landmark projects across the construction, mining and industrial sectors. Major projects include shopping centres, high rise buildings and universities, heavy industrial projects, mining, hospitals and entertainment arenas. Projects vary from fully documented to design and construct. The design phase is done in-house by engineering and drafting teams, working in conjunction with developers, builders and their consultants.

The Star Group is committed to excellence in the quality of workmanship and to this end has implemented Quality Management System 9001 and fully complying OH&S procedures

For further information please contact: Richard Skarzynski Phone: 02 9708 7555 or Email: info@starelectrical.com.au

AIDN-NSW MEMBERS' NEWS

THALES WINS AUSTRALIAN SUBMARINE SIMULATOR UPGRADE CONTRACT

Thales Australia has signed a contract with the Defence Materiel Organisation to upgrade the Collins Submarine Platform Training Simulator (PTS).

Located at the Submarine Training and Systems Centre (STSC) at HMAS Stirling, Western Australia, the PTS has been in service since 1993. Comprised of a Propulsion Control Simulator (PCS) and a Submarine Control Simulator (SCS), the PTS plays a central role in delivering individual and collective training across a number of critical submarine systems, including the propulsion, manoeuvring, power conversion and distribution, and auxiliary systems.

By adopting the latest Thales simulator technology, the upgrade will incorporate improvements to the PTS to address obsolescence and fidelity issues, bringing it up to date with the current configurations of the actual submarines.

Beyond the simulator, Thales is a major supplier to the Collins program. The company provides and supports the sonar suite, towed array, periscope visual system, communications mast and other key sensor support. Additionally, the company will also be upgrading the periscope visual system under a recently-signed contract. Since the program’s inception, Thales has accumulated extensive experience in supporting the unique requirements of Australia's submarine program, and has a detailed understanding of potential enhancements in this area.

Thales Australia CEO Chris Jenkins said: "This contract is a prime example of how we work closely with the customer to deliver low-risk, cost-effective upgrade solutions that will enable the Navy to continue to train their Collins crews for many years."

"As the original supplier of the Collins PTS, Thales is able to carry out the upgrade with minimal technical risk, leveraging our international experience from similar submarine upgrade programs in the UK."

Lieutenant Commander Andrei Ezergailis, the Royal Australian Navy’s STSC Engineering Training Manager, said: "The PTS provides a significant volume of vital individual and collective training for trainees and submarine crews. This upgrade will allow the PTS to continue to support Collins training through to the platform's expected life of type."

THALES AND DEFENCE IMPLEMENT DESKTOP PILOT PROGRAM

Thales Australia and the Department of Defence have commenced the Next Generation Desktop (NGD) project pilot program, which is delivering a new secure desktop computer system that is simpler to use and less expensive to sustain than current systems.

Instead of multiple terminals for different networks, users will benefit from de-cluttered workspaces with one computer, one keyboard, one screen and one mouse, enabling simultaneous access to the Defence Restricted Network and Defence Secret Network on the same screen.

The pilot program is an essential part of a planned future rollout across Defence, and has already made significant gains in de-risking the project, validating the technical design, proving cost savings and enhancing the user experience.

In its full implementation, NGD will use thin client technology to replace traditional desktops, which will substantially reduce hardware, power and sustainment costs for Defence, generating long term Strategic Reform Program savings.

Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia's CEO, said: "This strategic project is a prime example of how new technologies can lead to impressive capability increases combined with genuine cost savings. Our team is collaborating very closely with the customer and our partners to deliver this pilot phase, which has already smoothed the way for the next stage of wider implementation. Over the years to come, NGD will enable cost savings in the millions of dollars, making this investment a worthy use of taxpayers’ money."

Matt Yannopoulos, Chief Technology Officer, Department of Defence, said: "This pilot program supports a major Defence ICT reform initiative. The pilot has proven the technology is capable of meeting our needs and has offered learnings for implementation design."

The pilot program is being conducted at multiple Defence sites around Australia in order to show that the required functionality can be provided to the end users regardless of their location. The pilot has so far successfully demonstrated that a Server Based Computing solution can deliver a stable, responsive desktop with all of the expected capabilities, including printing.

Thales has also invested with Microsoft and Citrix, two of its three main partners in the project, in extensive testing conducted at Microsoft’s US facilities that has confirmed the core NGD design and provided real-world performance data. In addition, a support team and help desk are up and running, providing assistance to Defence personnel as they become acquainted with the new technology.

Prime contractor Thales Australia and a team of world class partners including Raytheon Trusted Computer Solutions (RTCS), Microsoft and Citrix are currently delivering and supporting the NGD pilot program.

THALES OPTRONICS FOR AUSTRALIAN INDIRECT

FIRE SUPPORT PROGRAM

Thales Australia has signed a contract with prime contractor Rockwell Collins Australia to deliver its market-leading optronics systems as part of a Department of Defence indirect fire support upgrade program.

A significant number of Sophie MF long range multi-function binoculars / thermal imagers and TYR laser target designators will be provided as part of the LAND 17 1B program for a Digital Terminal Control System to improve coordination and terminal control of air, naval and land fire support.

The Thales optronics sensors will be seamlessly integrated into Rockwell Collins’ Firestorm joint fires targeting system to provide a complete turnkey solution.

Thales Australia CEO Chris Jenkins said: "We have worked very closely with Rockwell Collins Australia to provide an advanced solution that will help the Australian Defence Force enhance its offensive support systems to provide greater tactical flexibility and precision targeting capability. The Sophie family of thermal imagers is used around the world, and we have recently upgraded our optronics facilities in Australia to offer an extensive and responsive local support capability for both thermal and laser equipment.”

A world leader in the design and manufacture of thermal imagers, Thales’s Sophie family of both cooled and uncooled products meets the full spectrum of observation, surveillance, orientation and fire-control requirements of today’s defence and security forces. Non-detectable due to their passive infrared operation, Sophie systems can be used day and night and under all weather conditions. Since their introduction, over 10,000 Sophie units have been sold to more than 45 countries. There are currently around 300 Sophie units already in service with the Australian Defence Force, as well as a quantity of TYRs.

The Sophie MF is a complete acquisition, identification and location system that weighs less than 3kg. It can be used day or night, with a high resolution stabilised image, plus an eye-safe laser rangefinder, GPS and direction finder.

The TYR is a state of the art compact laser target designator that can operate in standalone applications, with forward observation sensor equipment, dismounted soldiers or vehicle-mounted platforms. The TYR designates targets and provides both accurate range data and images of the laser spot on the target to allow laser-guided munitions to be accurately deployed.

NSW PREMIER O’FARRELL OPENS STATE-OF-THE-

ART CARBON FIBRE COMPOSITES FACILITY IN

BANKSTOWN

� Coded fabrication � Machining, turning and milling. � Refrigeration and Galley equipment repair. � Fire system certification. � Communication systems. � Painting.

Quickstep customers and partners include Audi, Airbus, Lockheed Martin and US Dept. of Defence NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell quote:

“We congratulate Quickstep on this new facility. This is one of the world’s most advanced carbon fibre component manufacturing plants and a great example of high technology bringing international work to NSW. With this facility, Quickstep will be the largest independent aerospace composites manufacturer in Australia.”

Philippe Odouard, managing director Quickstep quote:

“This facility represents a quantum leap in Australian advanced composites manufacturing, strengthening our ability to deliver product and technologies to global industries that increasingly source competitively around the world. We are grateful to the NSW government that substantially participated in the funding of this development,” he said.

Northrup Grumman Vice President Gary Ervin quote:

“Northrop Grumman is honoured to be part of this opening ceremony.

“This new facility is just one example of the investments Quickstep has made in the last two years in preparation for executing F-35 work. It’s a testament to the strong partnership Northrop Grumman has with Quickstep in producing the F-35 centre fuselage, as well as the Governments of Australia and New South Wales in establishing this critical composite manufacturing capability in Australia.”

AIDN-Northern Territory

AIDN-NT NEW MEMBERS

NT Marine Engineering and Electrical

Some of the services NT Marine Engineering and Electrical offer are:

Installation and commissioning of oily water systems including upgrades in accordance with current Maritime Pollution Regulations. Design and install of Unmanned Engine Room (UMS) Monitoring Systems. Full marine mechanical engineering services, prop and shaft change out. Repairs to ship's hydraulic systems, including stabilizing systems. Provide electrical repairs both Ac and Dc. Electrical and breakdown maintenance. Design supply and installation of power generation equipment and switchboards specialising in remote areas of Northern Australia complete with modem link ups with control systems to allow for remote diagnostics of problems. Fitting - mechanical and hydraulic. Fabrication - non DNV code.

We can also arrange the following External Services:

NT Marine Engineering and Electrical can offer a dynamic combination of qualified expertise and local knowledge. Additional labour can also be sourced through an extensive and reliable network.

Daniel Klein can be contacted by:E-mail: Daniel@ntmee.comPhone: 89470444

Nth Degree Engineering Services

Nth Degree Engineering Services is a multi-disciplinary consultancy service provider offering design and documentation of engineering, project management, environmental assessments and architectural design.

We provide and deliver civil infrastructure services for land development, mines, and commercial projects including warehouses, shopping centres, airports and power stations for both government and private sector clients.

Engineering services include: Detailed engineering design and/or drafting of stormwater, gravity sewer, sewer rising mains, sewer pump station design, water reticulation networks, trunk watermains, major road intersection upgrades, new road projects, car parks, road reconstructions, Workzone Traffic Management WZ1, Road Safety Audits, specifications and schedule for construction costs for tender. Liaise and co-ordinate with stakeholders providing cost estimates, design reports applying to the relevant Australian Standards and legislation from the applicable government agency to ensure designs are kept to a high standard.

Designs can be delivered in the latest software packages such as; 12D Model, AutoCAD, PC Drain, PC Sewer Culvert W, Auto TURN and Auto Track.

We are a passionate team focused on supporting cost-effective service delivery to meet the needs of our clients. Our focus is on collaboration and we are committed to fostering and maintaining effective communication on every project undertaken.

For more information contact AndrewPhone: 8942 2353Email: mail@nthdegree.net.auWebsite: www.nthdegree.net.au

AIDN-NT NEWS

2012 GALA DINNER 7 SEPTEMBER 2012

AIDN-NT is pleased to announce that the Gala Dinner will again be held on Friday, 7 September 2012. Our venue for 2012 has changed to the Aviation Museum and our guest speaker for the evening will be Mr Peter Forrest, renowned local historian with the Northern Territory at his heart. Please note in your diaries as this will once again be a night not to be missed.

Sponsorship opportunities are now open and this is a great way to showcase your business’ capabilities to Defence, Government and industry partners.

This year, through the theme of the dinner “Somewhere North of Somewhere”, we will explore how Defence has shaped our northern reaches and the part that it will play into the Northern Territory’s future.

During the war, the Territory became a land “somewhere north of somewhere”. Strict wartime censorship prohibited letter writers identifying the location from which they wrote. Mail went to or from “Somewhere in North Australia”. News reports employed the same jargon. “North Australia” was taken to mean north Queensland, - the Territory was beyond, it was “somewhere north of somewhere”.

Further information can be found at www.aidnnt.com.au or, alternatively, you can speak to Jodie on 8947 2033.

DEFENCE SUPPORT INDUSTRY AWARDS 2012

The Defence Support Industry Awards recognise outstanding achievements by local businesses which are consistent with, or have contributed to, the aims of the Northern Territory Defence Support Industry Development Strategy during the year.

The achievement can be specific to the business nominated or it can be to the industry in general. The nominees will be judged against elements of the Northern Territory Defence Support Industry Development Strategy vision, which is to develop a strong, sustainable and growing Defence support industry with capability aligned to the needs of Defence.

The awards will raise the winners’ profile in the Defence support sector and contribute to the continued growth and capability of support for the future needs of Defence The award categories are:

Chief Minister’s Award – recognising best overall contribution to the NT defence support industry.

Minister for Defence Support Award – recognition of achievements by an emerging defence business that has added to the local industry’s capability to service the needs of Defence.

AIDN-NT Young Achiever of the Year Award The awards will be announced and presented on the night of the AIDN-NT Gala Dinner.

Further information and nomination forms can be found at: www.aidnnt.com.auor www.defencesupport.nt.gov.au Alternatively you can call the XO on 8947 2033 to discuss your queries.

AIDN-Queensland

AIDN-Qld NEW MEMBERS

SENIOR BOEING FELLOWSHIP FOR AUSSIE

ENGINEER

Boeing has inducted Australian engineer Shane Arnott as the company’s first international Senior Technical Fellow, the highest ranking Boeing technologist outside of the US. Based in Brisbane with Boeing Defence Australia, Arnott is the company’s chief engineer of international experimentation for Phantom Works, Boeing’s advanced research and development organisation for defence programs and has supported large programs such as AEW&C, F-111, Vigilare, HFMP, FRES, AWACs, Apache, Super Hornet and various weapons programs, as well direct support to the ADF and the UK MOD on many classified projects

Boeing Senior Technical Fellows are major contributors at an industry level and are recognised as authorities on national and international levels. The Fellows are called upon to overcome technical barriers to meet challenging customer business and mission needs. They solve exceptionally difficult problems of major importance and drive Boeing’s leadership in aerospace. A total of 20 Boeing employees based in Australia have been inducted into the Technical Fellowship. Courtesy of ADMU

AIDN-Victoria

AIDN-Vic NEW MEMBERS

Since June the following 5 new members have joined AIDN-Vic. They are:

Convergent Water Controls Pty Ltd (CWC)

Convergent Water Controls Pty Ltd (CWC) is a leading supplier of conductivity, pH, ORP & free chlorine controllers and integrated dosing systems to the following Australian water treatment industries:

Cooling TowersPotable WaterWaste WaterBoilersSwimming PoolsFood & Beverage Process

Please contact Tony Mullins, Victorian State Manager, Phone: 03 9547 1811 or E-mail: tony@cwc.com.au

Eyelets Supply Company

Eyelets Supply Company has been manufacturing eyelets, Metal Pressings and other deep drawn stampings since 1924. Our core business is manufacturing metal pressings for the engineering, Automotive, Electrical, Mining, Apparel, Printing & Stationary industries.

Our extensive production capabilities include manufacturing eyelets with hole sizes from 2mm to 10mm in Brass, Steel and Stainless Steel. Eyelets Supply Company also has a unique ability to produce relatively small volumes of eyelets and metal pressings to customer specification.

We also manufacture for high volume requirements.

Please contact Luke Dowsing, CEO, Phone: 03 9558 4500E-mail: luked@eyelets.com.au

J Anderson & Co.

Operating out of the city of Geelong in Victoria, J Anderson & Co has been serving industry across Australia since 1958 providing engineering fabrication and machining services to satisfy a wide range of project needs. Our highly skilled, trades qualified team share decades of experience and are experts at fabricating and machining complex components in a variety of materials.

We fabricate and machine in the same workshop which enhances our broad capability and ensures complete control over our high quality standards. Conveniently located close to major highways and with easy access for heavy trucks, our 3,000 square meter workshop is designed to handle the largest of jobs.

Please contact Fred Webster, Sales Engineer Phone: 03 52404 888E-mail: fred@janderson.com.au

Strategic Global Communication Pty Ltd

Strategic Global Communication specialise in HF Antenna Systems

Please contact Martyn Kemel, Director,Phone: 0413 200 693E-mail: martynkemel@strategicglobalcommunications.com

Wilhelmsen Manufacturing Australia

With 37 years experience Wilhelmsen prides itself as one of the leaders in the Metal Manufacturing industry. We are able to provide your company with end to end solutions to all your manufacturing requirements.

Our capabilities include but are not exclusive to, Design, Fabrication, Laser Cutting, Folding, Bending, Rolling, Welding and Blast/Paint. Our highly experienced and innovative Design and Project Management Team can take your ideas and make them a reality.

� Global Industry Advisory Board. � Aerospace and Aviation Program Advisory Board.

Wilhelmsen supply an extensive range of products and services across diverse industries including Defence, Agriculture, Automotive, Public Transport, Mining and Construction.

Please contact Glenn Fitzgerald, Business Development ManagerPhone: 03-9394-0800E-mail: gfitzgerald@wilh.com.au

AIDN-Vic MEMBERS’ NEWS

MR MIRO MILETIC – RMIT DOCTOR OF ENGINEERING HONORIS CAUSA

Mr Miro Miletic (AIDN-Vic Executive Committee) has an impressive record of leadership and achievement in both the Australian and international aerospace industries. He is currently the managing director and founder of Memko Pty Ltd, a private organisation dedicated to providing engineering services, technology and training to aerospace and aviation industry businesses. Fluent in English, German and Serbian, Mr Miletic is respected internationally. With 20 years of experience within the aviation, aerospace and defence industries, he is highly regarded as an expert in his field.

From left, Dr Ziggy Switkowski, Chancellor, RMIT; Honorary Doctorate recipients - Dr Terrence Francis, Dr Miro Miletic, Dr Kaye Schofield; Professor

Margaret Gardner AO, Vice-Chancellor and President of RMIT.

Mr Miletic has been involved with RMIT University since 1995 and has always given his time generously to both staff and students. He is an active member of multiple RMIT University advisory boards including:

During this time he has conducted many industry reviews of higher and vocational education aerospace and aviation programs, as well as regularly donating his time to assist with the recruitment of aerospace engineering academic and research staff.

Mr Miletic is an active member of the aerospace, aviation and defence communities and serves to create positive partnerships wherever possible. For example, he previously served as a member of the Advanced Composite Structures Ltd Board and the Cooperative Research Centre for Advanced Composite Structures Board, of which RMIT is a major partner.

He initiated and facilitated a strategic relationship between RMIT and Boeing Aerostructures Australia, which serves to benefit students through scholarship and placement programs. His role was vital to RMIT University’s success in becoming a Boeing Focal University.

Mr Miletic has made tireless efforts to develop the aerospace and aviation professions in Australia. As Director of Engineering at Boeing Australia, he developed the largest commercial aircraft structures project ever undertaken in this country.

During his impressive career, Mr Miletic has made many outstanding achievements that continue to be of benefit at local, national and international levels. These include:

Contribution to the development of the global aerospace quality standard AS9100 as the only Australian member of the International Aerospace Quality Group. Advising the State Government of Victoria in initiating and establishing the new Australian Association of Aviation and Aerospace Industries. Chairing the 12th Australian International Aerospace Congress. Establishing Aerospace Student Scholarships enabling annual visits to Boeing US facilities.

Mr Miletic has served the Aerospace and Aviation communities with

enthusiasm and support. His contributions have led to local and international developments as well as the improvement of existing frameworks.

Mr Miletic is someone whose continued successes and achievements in the aerospace and aviation industries are a testament to dedication and hard work.

RSAF ACQUIRES FLIGHTPRO™ TO MANAGE M346 FIGHTER WINGS COURSE AT CAZAUX, FRANCE.

On behalf of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), ST Aerospace has selected Ocean Software’s FlightPro™ as the system to manage operations and training at 150 Squadron at Cazaux, France. The software will play a key role in the new replacement programme for the Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) and will include the SCORM compliant LMS, Learninglogics™ from Ocean’s partner Atlantis Systems International.

In September 2010, ST Aerospace was contracted to procure 12 x M346 aircraft with ground based training systems for the RSAF’s France-based fighter pilot training. ST Aerospace is responsible for overall management of the programme, with delivery of the 12 x M346 aircraft from Alenia Aermacchi starting in late 2012.

"Ocean is flattered that FlightPro™ has been chosen as the system to manage the RSAF’s AJT program. We look forward to supporting this first delivery of the exciting M346 outside Italy." said Adam Hogan, Ocean's Business Development Director

C4i SECURES OVER $1.4M IN NEW CONTRACTS

The Board of LongReach Group Limited today announced that C4i Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the LongReach Group, received new orders exceeding $1.4M from a combination of new and existing customers.

C4i signed today a contract with the Victorian Country Fire Authority (CFA) for the manufacturing of 2000 transportable radio systems. C4i will deliver this order within four months of contract signing which is consistent with its fast turnaround of customer projects.

“C4i has worked with a wide variety of government agencies around the world in defence, airports, and public safety and this project allows us to work with another key entity of the government, the country fire authority. As a Victorian based business, it is refreshing to be able to deliver to a customer within our home state.” said Peter Harrison, Managing Director of C4i.

In addition to this new contract, C4i also received other contract amendments valued at over $500K from its existing international customer base.

For over 20 years, C4i has specialised in delivering standard-setting communication solutions for mission-critical military and government customers around the globe. C4i is based in Melbourne, Australia, Reston, Virginia, USA, and Singapore with representatives around the world.

RADAR PROOFING COLLINS PERISCOPES

DSTO has delivered an improved form of Radar Absorbing Material (RAM) that makes Collins class submarine periscopes less detectable.

Development of the new material was carried out in a collaborative effort with Melbourne based rubber manufacturer, Mackay Consolidated Industries.

“The development process began with work done in DSTO’s laboratories to produce rubber samples containing various concentrations of different additives,” explains DSTO researcher Dr Andrew Amiet. “We tested these samples for radar wave absorption and reflectivity over a range of radar frequencies. The data obtained was then entered into a computer program written in-house that calculates the percentages of additives needed to achieve optimal radar absorption over a given frequency range.”

Using the optimised recipe generated by the program, Mackay produced RAM in large sections for attachment to periscope masts. The material comprised rubber layers at the required thicknesses, with each layer containing certain levels of additive concentrations. The rubber was laid down in custom-designed mouldings engineered by Mackay to fit the particular shape of each periscope mast perfectly.

To test the effectiveness of the applied material, DSTO scientists undertook a

study at sea, measuring the strength of radar return signals from periscopes with the new RAM installed. The work verified that the range at which other sea or airborne platforms can detect a Collins class submarine is much reduced compared to an untreated mast.

The RAM is now being progressively installed on the entire Collins class submarine fleet Additional to the development of RAM for submarines, DSTO has undertaken to develop similar materials for use on other Defence platforms. These materials range from lightweight flexible sheets, radar absorbing paints and rigid fibreglass structures.

A possibility for future development Dr Amiet is looking into is that of a RAM comprising meta-materials, which offer the ability to easily transform the properties of the absorber without the need for a complete redesign. “A RAM made of active meta-materials can potentially produce an absorber that can dynamically alter its performance to accommodate a change in requirements,” he says. Courtesy of ADMU.

NEW THALES BUSHMASTERS FOR AUSTRALIAN

ARMY

Thales Australia has welcomed the Australian Government’s announcement today that it will purchase an additional 214 Bushmaster vehicles for the Australian Army.

Thales Australia CEO Chris Jenkins said the announcement was a tremendous expression of confidence in the vehicle, and in the ability of Australian industry to deliver life-saving capability to the Australian Defence Force.

“Bushmaster vehicles are proving their worth every day in Afghanistan under some of the harshest conditions imaginable.

“The vehicle’s life-saving design, off-road mobility and reliability have made it a mainstay of Australian operations.

“Today’s announcement ensures that the design, engineering and manufacturing capability at Bendigo that has produced Bushmaster will be able to be retained and will provide a sustainable skills base for future military vehicle manufacture in Australia.

“Continuity of production is vital to maintain strategic industrial capabilities. Lack of continuity or confidence means skilled workforces are difficult to maintain and supply chains are disrupted.

“Every Bushmaster built at our facility in Bendigo includes parts from around 100 Australian SMEs in our supply chain. Today’s announcement also gives them confidence and continuity.

“I would like to acknowledge the strong support for the vehicle from many stakeholders, including the Army end users, the Bendigo community, our workforce, manufacturing unions and both Government and Opposition members.

“It is very encouraging that there has been such widespread support for maintaining the strategically important industrial capability at Bendigo, which will be vital for the delivery of the Hawkei Light Protected Vehicle now in development.

“It also reflects confidence in the ability of Australian defence industry to deliver advanced capability.”

THALES AND WINCHESTER TEAM UP IN AUSTRALIA

Thales Australia and Winchester Australia have signed a strategic teaming agreement to cooperate on Australian market opportunities.

With complementary backgrounds and capabilities, the partnership combines the strengths of two of the leading names in Australian munitions and creates numerous avenues for productive collaboration.

This local partnership reflects the global strengths of two companies with significant international operations and expertise. Thales’s munitions operations in Europe include Thales Advanced Weapon Systems, Thales Missile Electronics, a 45% stake in fuzes specialist Junghans Microtec, plus TDA Armements and Forges de Zeebrugge (FZ).

Winchester Ammunition, a division of Olin Corporation, has been manufacturing ammunition for more than a century, and is one of the world's most recognisable and respected brands. In addition to its commercial products, Winchester has been providing ammunition to the US military since World War I, and operates two major US manufacturing facilities.

Winchester Australia has a manufacturing and distribution facility in Geelong, Victoria, and has been a supplier of ammunition and firearms to defence and law enforcement agencies in Australia since 1967.

The new agreement between Thales Australia and Winchester Australia builds on an existing relationship of mutual supply and production collaboration.

The two companies will immediately focus on opportunities in both the defence and non-defence markets. Beyond this, the agreement enables Thales to develop more cost effective solutions for key products currently supplied to the Department of Defence under existing contracts.

Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia’s CEO, said: “Winchester is one of the world’s leading small arms businesses, with an unrivalled pedigree in small arms ammunition stretching back to its founding in the US almost 150 years ago. We firmly believe that our two companies have much to offer our customers by working together.”

Clive Pugh, Winchester Australia’s Director and General Manager, said: “The opportunity to assist Thales develop defence and commercial markets is a very exciting step for us. There is a strong complementary fit between our operations and we are looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.”

GOODRICH SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH SYPAQ TO

REPRESENT DB-110 SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM IN

AUSTRALIA

Goodrich Corporation’s ISR Systems team in Westford, Mass. has signed an agreement with SYPAQ Systems Pty. Ltd., based in Melbourne, Australia to represent and provide program management for the Goodrich DB-110 reconnaissance system.

This agreement allows Goodrich to offer direct local representation in Australia and New Zealand. This is the second agreement for Goodrich and SYPAQ, adding the DB-110 surveillance system offering to the Goodrich intelligence exploitation system agreement already in place.

Andrew Chrostowski, general manager of Goodrich’s ISR Systems team said, “We now have the team in place to offer a full reconnaissance system with complete local resources in Australia and New Zealand.”

George Vicino, SYPAQ’s managing director commented, “Culminating two years of close collaboration, this agreement marks a significant milestone in the relationship between SYPAQ and Goodrich, and we look forward to our joint success in the region.”

The DB-110 system comprises an airborne pod containing a long-range, dual-band EO/IR imaging sensor, and fixed and mobile intelligence exploitation systems. The day/night sensor is suitable for use on fast-jets, large UAVs and business jets. Ten countries worldwide have already selected the DB-110 for operation, and it has been used very successfully for operations in Afghanistan and Libya.

� Improve productivity and competitiveness. � Strengthen capability. � Encourage wider and ongoing innovation.

� Routine replacement or upgrade of plant and equipment using simple technologies.

� Activities that would be undertaken in the normal course of business, such

VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT NEWS

INVESTING IN MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY

Introduction

Investing in Manufacturing Technology (IMT) promotes the growth, productivity and international competitiveness of manufacturing businesses by stimulating investment in new technologies.

IMT is a major initiative under the Victorian Government’s manufacturing strategy: A More Competitive Manufacturing Industry: New Directions for Industry Policy and Manufacturing.

Nature of Assistance

Grants of up to $250,000 are available on a competitive basis to assist manufacturers to purchase and integrate new technologies that will:

All grants require a minimum co-contribution from the business of 75% of total eligible project expenditure (i.e. $3 for every $1 granted). Eligible project expenditure includes capital expenditure and other project-related non-capitalised expenditure but does not include internal costs, salaries or resources.

Purchasing technology that is embedded in equipment and machinery should be central to proposed projects. The project should also involve integrating the technology into the business, which may also include some facility redesign and training.

IMT is not intended to support projects which primarily involve:

as capacity expansion. � (R&D) Research & Development and commercialisation.

Eligibility Criteria

Possess an Australian Company Number (ACN) Have a manufacturing presence in Victoria Have at least three years trading history Meet the co-contribution requirement with eligible project expenditure Be willing to provide financial reports for the last three financial years to enable the Department of Business and Innovation (DBI) to conduct a risk assessment

Funding Rounds

IMT is delivered in competitive funding rounds. There will be three funding rounds per year. Applications will only be accepted when a funding round is open for applications.

Applications for Round One have closed.

It is anticipated that Round Two of IMT will open for applications in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Irrespective of eligibility and merit there is no guarantee that an offer of funding will be made.

How to Apply

Businesses should carefully consider the proposed project’s ability to meet the program requirements and perform well against the assessment criteria before committing significant resources to developing an application.

Businesses interested in applying for a grant are encouraged to discuss their proposed project with a Victorian Government Business Development Manager. For contact details call Business Victoria on 13 22 15.

Applications can only be made using the online application below. Printed, facsimile, posted or other methods of delivery of the application form will not be accepted.

Supporting Documentation

All applications must be accompanied by a project plan. A template providing guidance about what information the project plan should include is attached below.

All shortlisted applicants will also be required to provide additional supporting documentation. For further information, see the Program Guidelines

For further information and application forms visit www.business.vic.gov.au

AIDN-Western Australia

AIDN-WA MEMBERS' NEWS

L-3 DELIVERS COMMUNICATIONS SOLUTION FOR JAMES CAMERON’S DEEPSEA CHALLENGE EXPEDITION

L-3 Nautronix and L-3 ELAC Nautik announced on 20 June, the use of their maritime systems equipment to provide unprecedented two-way, reliable communications to the deepest point of the ocean, a part of the Mariana Trench called Challenger Deep. The L-3 systems were used in support of a record-breaking dive conducted by James Cameron in his one-man DEEPSEA CHALLENGER submarine on March 26.

The dive was the centrepiece of the DEEPSEA CHALLENGE expedition, a joint scientific project by James Cameron, the National Geographic Society and Rolex to conduct deep-ocean research and exploration. Mr. Cameron touched bottom at a depth of 10,898 metres and stayed there for several hours in order to explore, film and collect scientific samples. The information collected during the expedition will be included in a National Geographic magazine story as well as a 3-D feature documentary film to be released this winter. All information for the project is available at www.deepseachallenge.com.

“We are extremely proud to have been part of James Cameron’s historic expedition and to have assured reliable communications to the bottom of the ocean,” said Paul Roberts, L-3 Nautronix project manager and expedition team member. “This project proves that the possibilities for voice and digital

data transfer now have few limitations. The L-3 solution guaranteed the continuous flow of information, allowing Mr. Cameron to immediately transmit the news of his landing on the Trench to the expedition’s surface vessels, as well as his wife, and to simultaneously receive their congratulations.”

The Mariana Trench is the most remote and isolated place on the planet. To meet the extraordinary demands of the expedition, L-3 was tasked with providing a technical solution that would enable Mr. Cameron and his submarine’s systems to remain in contact through voice and digital communications to the surface at all times. L-3’s underwater communications solution included the MASQ signaling system from L-3 Nautronixcomplemented by the UT 3000 underwater telephone system from L-3 ELAC Nautik.

L-3 Nautronix’ MASQ signalling system was developed to provide next-generation, reliable Through Water Communications (TWC) as an underwater SMS-style messaging system operating at speed and depth. L-3 ELAC Nautik’s UT 3000 is a premier underwater communications system that combines analogue and digital communication in a single unit. In addition to a telephony and telegraphy mode, the UT 3000 provides unique features, such as own noise measurement, horizontal distance measurement and transmission of SOS signals.

Aside from underwater communications, the state-of-the-art L-3 systems supported the monitoring of critical data, including Mr. Cameron’s vital signs, the submarine’s oxygen and battery levels, depth, speed, and range from the support vessels.

L-3 Nautronix is a leading provider of maritime systems and solutions for surface, undersea, geospatial and network-centric applications. The company maintains facilities in Sydney, Fremantle, Wollongong and Cairns, Australia. The technology deployed for the expedition was originally developed to provide the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines with a highly reliable, discrete communications capability and has since been developed for a number of other defence and commercial applications. For more information, please visit www.L-3com.com/Nautronix.

QUICKSTEP SECURES SECOND LONG TERM AGREEMENT TO SUPPLY F-35 JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER COMPONENTS

Second Long Term Agreement (LTA) signed with Northrop Grumman to manufacture parts for the international F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program LTA provides framework under which Quickstep will manufacture “Group 2” JSF components until 2020 Follows successful completion of qualification process to demonstrate production readiness for Group 2 component manufacturing Follows successful completion of qualification process to demonstrate production readiness for Group 2 component manufacturing First Purchase Order for Group 2 parts expected by July 2012 Production of Group 1 JSF components now well underway at Quickstep’s manufacturing facility in Western Australia

Philippe Odouard, managing director quote:

“Through our production of Group 1 JSF parts, Quickstep has confirmed its ability to successfully undertake advanced aerospace manufacturing contracts and feed into Northrop Grumman’s international supply chain for the F-35 project,” he said. “This expansion of Quickstep’s contracts to include Group 2 parts will increase the number and variety of components the Company will supply to the JSF program.”

Lockheed Martin’s F-35 programme manager, Mr Tom Burbage, recently congratulated Quickstep on its work relating to the JSF program, saying:

“One of our most innovative and critical suppliers, Quickstep Holdings, completed source inspection of their first F-35 production parts at their Perth facility. To date, Quickstep has met – and in many cases outperformed – all JSF delivery deadlines. We don’t often get to recognize the excellent performance of our global supply chain, but there are many companies worldwide working very hard to make the F-35 successful. Thanks to all of them and a special well done to Quickstep.”

AUSTAL STRENGTHENS LINKS WITH KELVIN HUGHES

UK-based Kelvin Hughes has appointed Austal to lead its defence, border protection and paramilitary sales and support activities in Australia and New Zealand. The agreement will enable both companies to best support customers in Australasia.

Austal, which has provided systems maintenance services for KH products since 1993, will sell and support Kelvin Hughes’ naval and marine products,

including naval transceivers, digital displays and processors and spares.

Austal CEO Andrew Bellamy said the Kelvin Hughes appointment demonstrated further progress in the expansion of the company’s defence and systems activities. “This agreement, and the one with mission system integrator General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems we announced in March, demonstrates our ability to leverage our in-house capabilities and market position to expand the Austal business,” he said.

DEFENCE INDUSTRY NEWS

CHANGES TO THE DEFENCE CAPABILITY PLAN

Future public versions of the Defence Capability Plan (DCP) are to include only those projects approaching either first or second pass in the four year Forward Estimates period, providing industry with information on project cost, project schedule and local industry content, announced Defence Minister Stephen Smith and Defence Materiel Minister Jason Clare.

A new document to complement the public DCP, the Defence Capability Guide (DCG), will provide general guidance for industry on projects over the six-year period following the four years of the DCP.

Its aim will be to ensure that industry has information about the Government’s longer-term capability intentions, noting that beyond the four year DCP, there is more uncertainty, and historically projects are less well defined and have been subject to change, both in terms of scope, cost and schedule.

The level of information on projects in the DCG for the general guidance of industry will necessarily be less definitive than that in the DCP.

Projects in the DCG will enter the DCP as they become better defined and if Government decides that they are of sufficient priority to be included in the Forward Estimates years and funded in the Budget.

A new public DCP and DCG will be published this quarter.

It is proposed that future publications be aligned with the Annual Defence Budget, with subsequent six monthly updates.

FAST JET TRAINING CONTRACT ANNOUNCED

Minister for Defence Stephen Smith and Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare recently announced the signing of a multi-million dollar contract to commence operations for the upgrade of the Hawk Lead-In-Fighter.

“The $25 million contract with BAE Systems in the United Kingdom (UK) signals the commencement of upgrade activities on the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) fast jet training capability, otherwise known as the Hawk,” Mr Smith said.

Both BAE Systems UK and Australia have been working closely with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to define the scope of the upgrade, leveraging off previous Hawk development programs.

Australian industry will play a facilitation role in the early stages of the upgrade, ensuring compatibility with the current Lead-In Fighter training capability and will be responsible for construction of simulator facilities, modification of the Hawk Fleet, and in-service support of equipment.

“BAE Systems UK is the manufacturer of the original Hawk aircraft and developed a later version of the aircraft for the UK Ministry of Defence, on which the upgrade is to be based.”

Mr Clare said upgrading the countries fast jet training system would ensure its effectiveness into the next decade and ensure a suitable foundation for progression onto the F/A-18 Classic and Super Hornets and the Joint Strike

Fighter (JSF) as it is introduced into service.

The Hawk is the training aircraft for the ADF’s fast jet pilots before they move on to the Classic Hornet or Super Hornet and the future Joint Strike Fighter (JSF).

The Hawk plays an important role in training Australian fighter pilots. It can carry a wide range of munitions similar to those carried by the Hornet aircraft. The aircraft has a secondary role of providing training support to Navy, Army and Air Force operational capabilities.

BOEING DEMONSTRATES MULTI-LOCATION PAINT CAPABILITY FOR ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE

Boeing subsidiary Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) has delivered the first two of 65 repainted aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) from two separate facilities.

The RAAF accepted a repainted Orion AP-3C aircraft at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia and a C-130H Hercules at RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales less than three months after contract date. Under the AUD $20 million agreement signed in March, BDA will paint 63 more RAAF fixed-wing aircraft over three years.

The AP-3C maritime surveillance aircraft spent 30 days in Air New Zealand’s paint facility in Christchurch. BDA partner Air New Zealand Engineering Services stripped and painted the aircraft while it simultaneously underwent maintenance support services provided by Australian Aerospace Limited.

“This added a layer of complexity, as we had to ensure that the maintenance activities were scheduled in between stripping and painting the aircraft,” said Dennis Mulligan, BDA Surface Finishing project manager. “Due to excellent collaboration among all parties, we were able to deliver the aircraft to the customer on time and within budget.”

Meanwhile, the first of three RAAF C-130H transport aircraft was repainted within three weeks as BDA partnered with regional supplier Flying Colours Aviation in Townsville, Queensland.

“Our successful start on this program is testament to BDA’s commitment to providing the same level of service to the RAAF fleet irrespective of location, as well as our local-partnership approach that draws on Boeing’s global supply chain and capabilities,” said Kim Gillis, managing director of Boeing Defence Australia.

“The preparation, remediation and painting of tactical derivative aircraft is a natural extension of the sustainment services that BDA currently provides the RAAF at Amberley and Williamtown,” Gillis added. “When we say we can deliver, we mean it.”

Over the next three years, BDA will prepare, remediate and paint aircraft across four of the RAAF’s mid-to large-sized platforms in multiple locations in Australia and New Zealand.

This month, BDA will begin painting the first of 28 Hawk-127 jet fighters at RAAF Base Amberley’s Corrosion Control Facility.

NEW SECURITY CLASSIFICATIONS

THE Government is streamlining its security classification system that will remove the outdated distinction between ‘national security’ and ‘non-national security’ information.

Acting Assistant Secretary Security Policy and Plans, Pat Burke, says one of the main benefits for Defence will be improved cooperation with other government agencies.

“The new Australian Government Security Classification System (AGSCS) is designed to help implement the Government’s vision for effective information sharing across agencies,” Pat says.

“While all Australian Government agencies are required to commence using the AGSCS by August 1, due to the considerable amount of work required to align Defence’s ICT systems, Defence has been given until August 2013.

“To cater for the different timelines, Defence will use a transitional system which will allow us to continue to use the old markings while being able to receive and protect information from other agencies as they start to use the new markings.”

Most of the AGSCS will remain the same as the current system. The classifications TOP SECRET, SECRET, CONFIDENTIAL and PROTECTED are mostly unchanged – the only change is to SECRET which will incorporate the previous marking of HIGHLY PROTECTED.

Pat says the more significant changes are at the lower end of the scale. The AGSCS introduces the marking For Official Use Only (FOUO), which will be used for information that may cause limited damage to national security, government agencies, commercial entities or members of the public. In many situations, FOUO can replace RESTRICTED and some uses of the IN-CONFIDENCE marking.

“The AGSCS also introduces the marking of Sensitive, which will be used for information where disclosure is limited or prohibited by legislation, such as the Privacy Act. Sensitive will be used on information that is currently marked as PERSONNEL-IN-CONFIDENCE or LEGAL-IN-CONFIDENCE,” Pat explains.

“During the transition period any information you receive from other agencies marked FOUO or Sensitive will not need to be reclassified, but you will need to protect it as if it is RESTRICTED or IN-CONFIDENCE respectively.

“Keep an eye on our Transition Management Portal where we will update our guidance on how to protect information during the transition.”

The portal is at http://intranet.defence.gov.au/dsa/dsm.index.html.

The relationship between the current system, transition system and Australian Government Security Classification System.

UK MOD INVESTING IN HUMAN CAPABILITY

RESEARCH ACROSS DEFENCE

Following an open competition, BAE Systems has been selected to lead the management of the UK Ministry of Defence's (MoD's) Defence Human Capability Science & Technology Centre advancing the application of human sciences across defence.

BAE Systems, Yeovil, has been awarded the prime contract by the MoD’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and will manage a four-year, multi-million pound programme of research supporting priority Human Capability requirements from across the MoD.

Alun Fishburne, Managing Director of BAE Systems, Defence Information says: “BAE Systems is proud to be partnering with Dstl to recognise Human Capability as a priority area for Defence Research. BAE Systems has a long history of working with a broad range of suppliers to deliver world class, high impact research in this domain.”

The Defence Human Capability Science & Technology Centre will deliver research across a broad range of themes including human factors integration, personnel, influence and stabilisation, health and well-being and training. Research examples relate to enhancing physical and cognitive performance, reducing soldier burden whilst maximising safety, utilising recent developments in simulated environments for training and exploiting human behaviours in conflict resolution.

BAE Systems will be responsible for managing the programme and working with a broad range of suppliers from industry, academia and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to create a virtual human capabilities ‘Centre of Excellence’. http://www.adsadvance.co.uk

NZ DEFENCE FORCE MORALE HITS NEW LOW

The Defence Force has revealed it's losing staff to the lucrative Australian mining industry as a new survey shows morale has hit a fresh low.

Defence Force Chief Lieutenant General Rhys Jones said Australian mining

companies were "actively recruiting" in the Devonport area near the Auckland naval base.

"The mining industry is one the military find very hard to compete with. The salary package is often twice, if not more. The Australian military is being stripped as well."

The Navy was particularly affected because it handled large equipment.

"That's what the mining industry deals with as well, large cutting machines, large engines and vehicles. Any type of mechanical trade is being picked up."

Jones said the Australian departures were one of the main reasons for a 22.3 per cent attrition rate in the Navy.

According to the auditor-general the Defence Force had lost almost 1000 personnel in the past two years, going from 14,577 to 13,667.

In an effort to save $400 million the Government has embarked on a process of civilianising up to 600 roles.

That process had badly affected morale with Rear Admiral Jack Steer, vice-chief of the Defence Force, telling Parliament earlier this year that it would not force any more redundancies because it had been "too damaging".

The most recent workplace survey released today shows morale has continued to fall and is now at its lowest level, with more than 40 per cent of staff saying they intended to leave.

Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman told the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade select committee about 73 per cent of personnel rated their experience in the force as satisfactory, good or excellent.

However, the Government wouldn't want to see a 22.3 per cent attrition rate in the Navy "year on year".

The changes had not been without problems, he acknowledged. Losing staff to the Australian mining industry was a nationwide issue, Coleman later told reporters.

While the force could handle all the disasters it had contingency plans for, Jones said it would be under strain if it had to sustain another East Timor-type deployment with more than 1000 people.

Navy staff losses had led to its inshore patrol boats having less days at sea and sailors more time at home.

Jones said the benefits of that weren't being seen yet but it was one way the force was trying to improve the quality of life for staff.

"The Navy, the Army and the Air Force remain amazing places to work. They are fun organisations full of amazing people."

The changes they were going through were going to be "very good for the Defence Force".

GENERAL NEWS

PERSONNEL CHANGES

Chairman and CEO of General Dynamics Jay L. Johnson will retire on December 31 and be succeeded by Phebe N. Novakovic. She became president and COO in May and before that was executive vice president of the Marine Systems group and senior vice president for planning and development.

To strengthen its defence business development activities and capabilities Austal has appointed former Deputy Chief of the Royal Australian Navy, Rear Admiral Davyd Thomas, AO, CSC, RANR to the executive position of Vice President - Defence.

Austal Chief Executive Officer Andrew Bellamy said the skills, experience and contacts Rear Admiral Thomas had gained in a nearly 40 year naval career would be instrumental in progressing Austal's defence activities in Australia and internationally.

Raytheon Company has appointed Ian Stopps CBE as the Chairman of Raytheon UK's board of directors. Stopps succeeds Sir Robert Hayman-Joyce, who recently retired after serving as Chairman for more than 10 years.

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR NATIONAL AEROSPACE INNOVATION AWARDS

Organisers of the 2013 Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition are calling for nominations for the newly launched National Aerospace Innovation Awards.

These National Awards recognise and reward those Australian companies and individuals who are at the forefront of both defence and commercial aerospace innovation.

Six awards will be presented for the following categories; Defence Industry National Innovation Award, Civil Industry National Innovation Award, Defence Industry SME Innovation Grant, Civil Industry SME Innovation Grant, Scholarship for Defence Industry Innovation, Scholarship for Civil Industry Innovation.

The awards have been developed by the National not for profit foundation, Aerospace Australia Ltd, which presents the biennial Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition at Avalon Airport in Victoria.

“We want to recognise the skills and expertise that exist within Australia and reward the highly innovative work which is being undertaken by Australian companies,” says CEO Ian Honnery.

Nominations for the National Aerospace Innovation Awards will close on 30 September with a short list of candidates drawn up by 31 October.

To find out further information about the eligibility criteria click here.

The 2013 Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition will be held at Avalon Airport from 26 February to 3 March and is supported by the State Government of Victoria, the City of Greater Geelong and the Australian Defence Force, in particular the Royal Australian Air Force.

NEW INTERNATIONAL READINESS INDICATOR PAVES

THE WAY TO EXPORT

Austrade has launched a new online service to help small and medium-sized businesses take their first steps towards exporting. The International Readiness Indicator is a fast, easy way for firms to assess their capacity to tackle global markets, and a key component of Austrade's plan to enhance its online services. [find out more]

AUSTRALIAN EXPORT AWARDS: WRITING A WINNING

APPLICATION

Every year more than 300 companies compete to win an Australian Export Award. In this, its 50th year, the awards will honour the best Australian companies operating in international markets since 1963. Before you apply, check out these quick tips for writing a winning application. Note applications close commencing in mid July. Closing dates vary in each State. [find out more]

A NEW SERVICE FOR BUSINESS NAME

REGISTRATION

Launched in late-May, the Government's new National Business Names Registration Service will reduce red tape, save time and cut costs for Australian businesses. The new service replaces each state and territory register, making it easy for businesses to register throughout the country in one online transaction. [find out more]

HIGHER CEILING FOR INITIAL EXPORT GRANTS

Eligible exporters will receive a higher initial reimbursement for their promotional expenses under the latest round of the Export Market Development Grants scheme.

Trade and Competitiveness Minister Craig Emerson said today those exporters who successfully applied for grants of up to $60,000 would receive the full amount under the budget allocation for the 2012-13 financial year. This compares with $50,000 in 2011-12.

The EMDG scheme is one of the ways in which the Australian Government helps small and mid-sized businesses with the costs of promotion and marketing of their international operations.

Recipients for the 2011-2012 grant year, paid in 2012-13, with an entitlement up to and including $60,000 will be paid in full. Those with entitlements above this will receive a second-tranche payment at the end of June 2013, the size of which will be determined at the time.

"An initial payment of up to $60,000 provides recipients with a healthy immediate cash flow, which is always welcome at smaller companies," Dr Emerson said.

In the 2010-11 Budget, the Gillard Government committed to funding the EMDG scheme at $150.4 million a year, and also extended it for a further five years, to 2015-16.

"The Government is committed to helping Australian businesses to compete internationally," Dr Emerson said.

"These marketing grants are a practical way to offset some of the costs of doing business globally," he said.

REGISTER SHORTLY FOR THE NEW R&D TAX INCENTIVE

Applications for registration of research and development activities undertaken in the 2011-12 income year will open on 1 July 2012. A smart form is now available for Australian businesses to register.

The new R&D Tax Incentive provides more generous targeted tax offset benefits for eligible activities than the Tax Concession it replaces, supporting firms of all sizes and in all sectors to invest in R&D.

For businesses with a turnover of less than $20 million the R&D Tax Incentive doubles the rate of support compared to the Tax Concession. For all other businesses the R&D Tax Incentive increases the support available by a third.

For more info please Click Here

NATIONAL INNOVATION AWARDS NOMINATIONS

Organisers of the 2013 Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition are calling for nominations for the newly launched National Aerospace Innovation Awards.

These National Awards recognise and reward those Australian companies and individuals who are at the forefront of both defence and commercial aerospace innovation.

Six awards will be presented for the following categories; Defence Industry National Innovation Award, Civil Industry National Innovation Award, Defence Industry SME Innovation Grant, Civil Industry SME Innovation Grant, Scholarship for Defence Industry Innovation, Scholarship for Civil Industry Innovation.

The awards have been developed by the National not-for-profit foundation, Aerospace Australia Ltd, which presents the biennial Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition at Avalon Airport in Victoria.

“We want to recognise the skills and expertise that exist within Australia and reward the highly innovative work which is being undertaken by Australian companies,” says CEO Ian Honnery.

Nominations for the National Aerospace Innovation Awards will close on 30 September with a short list of candidates drawn up by 31 October.

To find out further information about the eligibility criteria click here

The 2013 Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition will be held at Avalon Airport from 26 February to 3 March and is supported by the State Government of Victoria, the City of Greater Geelong and the Australian Defence Force, in particular the Royal Australian Air Force.

AIDN ACTIVITIES LIST FOR 2012

July 23 Defence Update for Industry NSW

August 8 AIDN-Vic Bank of Melbourne Breakfast AIDN-Vic

T.B.A.AIDN-NSW School of Military Engineering visit TBC

AIDN-NSW

September 20 AIDN-NSW Annual DinnerAIDN-NSW

October 2 AIDN-Vic Defence Update/Golf Day AIDN-Vic

November 27 AIDN-Vic Special Awards Dinner AIDN-Vic

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

AIDN NationalPhone: 03.9885 0907admin@aidn.org.au

AIDN-CanberraPhone: 02.6283 5240zoe.carroll@aidn.com.au

AIDN-NSWPhone: 0421 345 637nswxo@aidn.org.au

AIDN-NTPhone: +61 8 8947 2033xo@aidnnt.com.au

AIDN-QldPhone: 041 222 7375kevjcar@tpg.com.au

AIDN-TasPhone: 0418-591-479aidntas@aidn.org.au

AIDN-VicPhone: 03.9886 9278aidnvic@aidnvic.org.au

AIDN-WAPhone: 08 9427 0806aidn@casm.com.au

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