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InsideDefense reports that the debate over the cost and feasibility of converting a commercial off-the-shelf helicopter into a combat-ready aircraft has been renewed as industry pitches offerings to replace the US Army's OH-58 Kiowa Warrior.

Naval aviation history was made today, as an autonomous unmanned aircraft took off from a US Navy nuclear aircraft carrier in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Virginia.

Rolls-Royce has been awarded a US$35 million contract extension for repair and overhaul of T56 engines on US Navy aircraft.

Sagem has signed a contract with the Defence Science and Technology Agency of Singapore to develop and produce a new Gun Fire-Control System for eight Littoral Mission Vessels ordered by the Republic of Singapore Navy.

Germany has cancelled a planned 'Euro Hawk' drone program fearing European authorities will not certify them, a defence ministry source said Tuesday after reported European safety concerns.

The full version of Defence Week Premium no.252 of 9 May 2013 can be downloaded here as a PDF. A separate PDF of the latest Defence tenders can also be downloaded here.

For all that has been written about the new 2013 Defence White Paper since its release last week, there are some highlights to keep in mind on the capability front.

Range and endurance are essential for Australia's submarines to meet the operational requirements dictated by Australia's geography, trade routes and alliance and regional responsibilities.

The Group Maintenance Contract Request for Tender for the Navy's Adelaide Class frigate (FFG) fleet has recently been released.

ADF deployments in Afghanistan have highlighted the dangers and the difficulties of dealing with a seemingly fearless, but hidden enemy.

While the most common application of Jindalee OTHR's capabilities is in the general detection of air and maritime traffic, the radar also provides other services to the ADF.

Thales has celebrated 25 years of US propellant exports under Australian Munitions and US distributor Hodgdon Powder Company has celebrated a highly successful 25-year partnership at an event at the propellant manufacturing facility in Mulwala, NSW.

Shadow Defence Minister David Johnston has said that in spite of the impressive photo opportunities on hand at the 2013 Defence White Paper launch, the document itself is less inspiring.

ASC has recently welcomed 43 new apprentices to its submarine maintenance and shipbuilding business, making its apprenticeship program one of the largest in South Australia.

Chief of the Defence Force, General David Hurley has met with senior military leaders from the South Pacific for the second iteration of the South Pacific Defence Chiefs of Defence Force meeting in Nuku'alofa in Tonga.