The first locally trained pilots for the C-17A Globemaster II have graduated form the Boeing-run training centre at RAAF base Amberley.

Canberra-based technology company Electro Optic Systems Holdings Limited (EOS) has signed an exclusive agreement with its part-owner, Northrop Grumman, to bid for the third phase of the US Army’s Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) program.

Last year’s announcement that the ADF would be among the first to order the F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter has triggered a ramp-up in the activities and infrastructure required to support the F-35A in Australian service.

The Heli & UV Pacific 2010 conference and exhibition, held on the Gold Coast in May this year, gave the helicopter and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industries an opportunity to discuss technology development and deployment.

Lockheed Martin's JSF guru Tom Burbage was in country recently trying to explain the pricing models of the aircraft.

Lockheed Martin has selected BAE Systems Australia as its Australian partner for readiness and sustainment support for the F-35 Lightning II.

The US Marine Corps plans to field a cargo unmanned aerial system by August 2011 that will fly almost exclusively at night to avoid enemy threats.

Lockheed Martin and Ferra Engineering have signed a Memorandum of Agreement on an Australian facility for JSF vertical tail production.

Nammo and Thales Australia signed a Letter of Intent at Eurosatory for a planned cooperation on the next-generation aircraft ammunition.

BAE Systems Australia, Boeing Defence Australia and Thales Australia are shortlisted for the Interim Basic Flying Training (IBFT) program.

The USMC plans to outfit its fleet of AAI RQ-7 Shadow drones with laser designators, allowing them to guide missiles fired from manned platforms.

Thales has revealed details of its offering for the ADF's Interim Basic Flying Training contract, for which a source selection is due within weeks.

The Williams Foundation pilot training seminar examined the challenges of producing operational pilots for a "fifth generation" Defence Force.

Flight Lieutenant David Whyte and Pilot Officer Stephen Maunder are the RAAF's first locally trained pilots for the C-17A Globemaster.

Airbus and Australia want the Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures equipment for the A330 Multi Role Tanker Transports fitted at Getafe.

Lockheed Martin and Saab used Heli & UV Pacific 2010 to demonstrate the MH-60R helicopter's network-centric warfare capabilities.