Training talks
Negotiations between the UK Ministry of Defence and the Ascent consortium selected as training system partner for its future Military Flying Training System are to continue beyond the planned April target to sign the first contract under the project. Sources close to the programme say talks between the MoD and the Lockheed Martin UK/VT Aerospace team could conclude in July.
Fighter research
Japan has launched an evaluation process for a new fighter with initial assessments of the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-15FX and the Eurofighter Typhoon. The nation's air force also intends to consider the Dassault Rafale, Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor and the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
MiG reduction
Serbia's defence ministry has cut an overhaul to its remaining RSK MiG-29 fighters to provide enhancements to just four aircraft, rather than the five originally planned, citing tax issues. Work on the project has started at Batajnica airbase.
Increased harm
A Raytheon AGM-88 HARM anti-radar missile modified to attack low-power emitters has completed three free-flight tests. The variant adds an inertial navigation/global positioning system capability that allows it to acquire a low-power emitter close to the target.
Support centre
Northrop Grumman UK opened a facility in Chester last month to perform maintenance and repair of directional and large aircraft infrared countermeasures systems used by the Royal Air Force. The site will be operated in collaboration with Selex Sensors and Airborne Systems.
Source: Flight International
