The US National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) has contracted ILS International Launch Services to launch a satellite in 1999 aboard the new Atlas 3A booster. ILS beat Boeing's Delta III in a head to head sealed-bid competition. The NRO, which normally uses Titan IV boosters, will be the second customer for the Atlas 3A, which is boosted by a Russian-designed RD-180 engine. Loral has two bookings for the Atlas 3A, including the maiden launch in early 1999.
Source: Flight International
Bahrain’s military fleet renewal could be set to advance further, with a potential acquisition of ex-US Marine Corps (USMC) Bell AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters still in the mix.
One of the Royal Bahraini Air Force’s (RBAF’s) new Bell 505 training helicopters is making the type’s debut appearance at the show, within the static display.
Manama’s strengthened military capability is proudly on display at the Bahrain air show, with its air force’s newest and most capable-ever combat aircraft to take a starring role.
