Clean Sky: el proyecto LUBEBEAR busca reducir el peso y aumentar la eficiencia de los sistemas de engranajes
Nota de Prensa
- Motores de avión más ligeros y seguros gracias a las mejoras de los fenómenos de fricción
- El proyecto LUBGEAR, coordinado por CIDETEC Surface Engineering, generará el conocimiento necesario para diseñar sistemas de engranajes y de lubricación más ligeros y eficientes para los motores aeronáuticos del futuro
La industria aeronáutica europea tiene el foco puesto en ser competitivos en el mercado de la aviación civil y mantener su posición de liderazgo en la fabricación de aviones de pasajeros de corto a medio alcance. El programa CleanSky2 es parte del Programa Investigación e Innovación Horizonte 2020 de la Unión Europea y está gestionado por Clean Sky Joint Undertaking (CSJU), una iniciativa público-privada que coordina y financia actividades de investigación y desarrollo con la finalidad de acelerar el proceso de conseguir aviones más silenciosos y respetuosos con el medio ambiente. Para ello, será imprescindible utilizar tecnologías de motores innovadoras y cada vez más eficientes. El proyecto LUBGEAR se desarrollará en este contexto y uno de sus objetivos será avanzar en el conocimiento de los fenómenos de fricción en los sistemas de engranajes, principalmente cuando estos funcionan con un suministro de lubricante reducido, e incluso con pérdida de lubricación. Este avance en el conocimiento permitirá diseñar cajas de cambios y sistemas de lubricación más ligeros, sin comprometer la seguridad, reduciendo las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero de los aviones.
Actualmente, los motores más utilizados en aviación son los turbofán y turbohélice, que están basados en el uso de turbinas de gas. Dentro del programa europeo Clean Sky2, se están desarrollando nuevas generaciones de estos motores, caracterizados por ofrecer un consumo de combustible reducido, alta eficiencia, menores niveles de ruido y menores emisiones de CO2. Uno de los factores clave para respaldar este tipo de soluciones es la caja de cambios de potencia, que habrá que ser muy eficiente, ligera, compacta y fiable. Se están estudiando ampliamente las cajas de cambios de potencia pero aún no se comprende su comportamiento en condiciones fuera de diseño, como, por ejemplo, bajo pérdida temporal de lubricación. La pérdida de lubricación es responsable del rayado de engranajes y cojinetes. Cuando esto ocurre, existen varias soluciones para garantizar la seguridad y evitar que se produzcan daños en la caja de cambios. Entre ellas se encuentra la utilización de un sistema de lubricación auxiliar o el uso de sistemas de enfriamiento de emergencia, que suponen un aumento de peso de la aeronave. El proyecto LUBGEAR pretende ofrecer soluciones novedosas basadas en un conocimiento más profundo sobre los fenómenos de fricción entre engranajes cuando hay un suministro de lubricante reducido o se produce una pérdida de lubricación.
Dentro del programa Clean Sky2, el proyecto interviene en las siguientes áreas de interés: IAPD (Innovative Aircraft Demonstrator Platform) y LPA (Large Passenger Aircraft). Avio Aero es el Topic Manager, es decir, el miembro privado que el CSJU designa como responsable, y se encargará de garantizar que el proyecto ayude a cumplir los objetivos de la Plataforma Avanzada de Motores y Aeronaves así como los objetivos generales de Clean Sky2. Avio Aero es una empresa de GE Aviation que se dedica al diseño, fabricación y mantenimiento de componentes y sistemas de aviación civil y militar. Tiene más de 5.000 trabajadores en 7 plantas de producción situadas en Italia, Polonia y República Checa. Con más de 110 años de historia, la empresa siempre ha estado a la vanguardia de la innovación tecnológica y ha sido reconocida como pionera en Fabricación Aditiva en Europa.
En el proyecto participan cuatro entidades, coordinadas por CIDETEC Surface Engineering, que aporta su experiencia en el desarrollo de nuevas superficies de alto valor añadido como, por ejemplo, las superficies autolubricadas. Asimismo, CIDETEC se encargará de diseñar experimentos y pondrá al servicio del proyecto su experiencia en la gestión de proyectos financiados por la Comisión Europea (ha coordinado 9 de los 24 en los que ha participado), especialmente en el sector aeronáutico (12 proyectos en total, coordinando 5 de ellos). El centro austriaco de excelencia en tribología AC2T, por su parte, se encargará de llevar a cabo una campaña de prueba completa para crear una base de datos única y ampliar las herramientas de modelado de contactos. AC2T es uno de los centros de tribología privados más grandes de Europa. La Universidad Técnica de Múnich también participa en el proyecto a través de su centro de investigación de engranajes FZG, que cuenta con reconocimiento internacional y está especializado en diseño, optimización y pruebas de sistemas de engranajes y transmisiones. Concretamente, el FGZ se encargará de validar las soluciones más prometedoras para engranajes que operan en condiciones fuera de diseño en un banco de pruebas de nivel TRL3. El proyecto también cuenta con la participación de ZOERKLER, empresa austriaca fabricante de sistemas de transmisión, que aporta una dilatada experiencia en el diseño y fabricación de engranajes para motores de aviones y helicópteros. Esta empresa fabricará artículos de prueba y pondrá a disposición del proyecto todo su conocimiento en el ámbito del diseño de engranajes, para optimizar la geometría de los engranajes con el fin de mejorar su sostenibilidad y eficiencia.
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[Iberia] Sumamos ya más de 20 envíos de vacunas e incorporamos Ámsterdam como origen
Nota de prensa
- Desde el 28 de diciembre, Iberia ha realizado ya más de veinte envíos, principalmente a Baleares y Canarias
- Además, la terminal de carga y los empleados de handling de Iberia en Barajas acaban de renovar su certificación GDP (Good Distribution Practices) para el manejo de mercancías sanatarias
Iberia ha sumado Ámsterdam a los aeropuertos desde los que transporta vacunas. Hasta ahora, los traslados se habían hecho desde Bruselas pero en las últimas dos semanas la aerolínea ha sumado también envíos entre la capital holandesa y las islas Canarias y Baleares.
En concreto, este fin de semana han llegado a Madrid dos pallets de 68 kg cada uno, que anoche fueron transportados a Tenerife y Gran Canaria. Y hoy mismo, un envío adicional con 54 kg. con vacunas para Mallorca.
Desde el pasado 28 de diciembre, Iberia suma ya 24 envíos de vacunas con destino final Melilla, Gran Canaria, Tenerife y Mallorca. Envíos de la vacuna de Moderna desde Madrid y de Pfizer desde Ámsterdam y Bruselas.
Antes de partir hacia su destino final, las vacunas hacen una parada en el aeropuerto de Madrid, donde IAG Cargo, responsable de la comercialización de la carga en todas las aerolíneas del grupo IAG, tiene su terminal de carga y donde dispone de un producto específico para el transporte y tratamiento de material farmacéutico, “Constant Climate”, con camiones frigoríficos para el traslado del avión a la terminal y viceversa, instalaciones para el almacenaje y tratamiento en la propia terminal y aviones con bodegas equipadas para transportar estas vacunas con total seguridad.
En 2019 IAG Cargo inauguró en la Terminal de Carga de Madrid un nuevo centro especializado en el tratamiento de productos farmacéuticos y, desde que se inició la distribución de la vacuna de la COVID19, ha distribuido ya más de un millón de dosis por todo el mundo a través de sus Terminales de Carga en Madrid, Londres y Dublín.
Madrid, el hub más grande del sur de Europa para la gestión de medicamentos Tanto la terminal de carga como el personal de handling de Iberia cuentan con la certificación GDP (Good Distribution Practices), que les acredita como el hub más grande del sur de Europa para la gestión y distribución de medicamentos para uso humano. Anualmente Bureau Veritas audita las instalaciones y el personal de Iberia para la renovación de esta certificación. Read more...
DARPA Initiates Design of LongShot Unmanned Air Vehicle
press release
Program seeks to significantly increase engagement range and effectiveness of air-to-air weapons
DARPA's LongShot program, which is developing an air-launched unmanned air vehicle (UAV) with the ability to employ multiple air-to-air weapons, has awarded contracts to General Atomics, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman for preliminary Phase I design work. The objective is to develop a novel UAV that can significantly extend engagement ranges, increase mission effectiveness, and reduce the risk to manned aircraft.
Current air superiority concepts rely on advanced manned fighter aircraft to provide a penetrating counter air capability to effectively deliver weapons. It is envisioned that LongShot will increase the survivability of manned platforms by allowing them to be at standoff ranges far away from enemy threats, while an air-launched LongShot UAV efficiently closes the gap to take more effective missile shots.
“The LongShot program changes the paradigm of air combat operations by demonstrating an unmanned, air-launched vehicle capable of employing current and advanced air-to-air weapons,” said DARPA program manager Lt. Col. Paul Calhoun. “LongShot will disrupt traditional incremental weapon improvements by providing an alternative means of generating combat capability.”
In later phases of the program, LongShot will construct and fly a full-scale air-launched demonstration system capable of controlled flight, before, during, and after weapon ejection under operational conditions.
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DARPA Selects Performers to Advance Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Project
DARPA press release
DARPA has executed contract options to continue the Manta Ray project that began in 2020. The effort seeks to demonstrate innovative technologies allowing payload-capable unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) to operate on long-duration, long-range missions in ocean environments. The three prime contractors will be Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Martin Defense Group, LLC (formerly Navatek, LLC), and Metron, Inc.
The Manta Ray project seeks to develop UUVs that operate for extended durations without the need for on-site human logistics support or maintenance. It also aims to address critical challenges spanning energy management, UUV reliability, biofouling, corrosion control, navigation, underwater obstacle avoidance, and many other areas that could benefit Navy operations.
“Manta Ray performers have each taken unique approaches to solving the wide range of challenges related to UUV endurance,” said CDR Kyle Woerner, the program manager for Manta Ray. “To me, this is a clear sign we are tackling a complex problem without a clear ‘one size fits all’ solution.”
The Manta Ray program concluded its first major milestone with the completion of preliminary design reviews in early 2021. Later this year, selected performers will advance their designs toward a critical design review that will confirm design maturity before vehicle fabrication and testing in an anticipated Phase 2.
“The goals of this new class of undersea vehicle and its critical component technologies are to inform, as well as transition into, future Navy UUV efforts,” added Woerner.
Two of the selected performers, Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation and Martin Defense Group, LLC, will continue development of fully-integrated demonstration vehicles. A third performer, Metron, Inc., will advance progress on a novel energy harvesting subsystem. Read more...
Breathe easy: Clean Sky’s ADVENT brings innovation to aircraft cabin ventilation
Higher seating densities and more personal electronic equipment being used onboard by travellers means cabin ventilation systems have to work overtime to maintain air quality standards and meet passenger comfort requirements. Clean Sky’s ADVENT project is exploring advanced ventilation techniques with enhanced heat removal and local ventilation efficiencies. This is achieved through experimental simulations of operational conditions as well as implementation of numerical simulations.
’Increased thermal loads in aircraft cabins brought about by higher seating densities and more personal electronic equipment, as well as the demand for industrial modular design, are pushing state-of-the-art mixing ventilation to its limits,’ says Dr. Daniel Schmeling, Team Leader of Vehicle Ventilation and Air- Conditioning at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Göttingen.
’Alternative ventilation concepts with enhanced heat removal efficiency and local ventilation efficiency require reconsidering the air fraction [the ratio between fresh air and recycled air] in modern passenger aircraft cabins in order to save bleed air [drawn off the main aircraft engines] so as to conserve energy in the future.’
Clean Sky’s ADVENT project, which is supported by the EU’s Horizon 2020 programme in collaboration with the aviation industry and runs until 2021, is taking on the challenge of improving cabin ventilation standards with a project that has set itself three interconnected objectives:
Firstly, to identify and benchmark a ventilation concept for long-range cabins with enhanced heat removal efficiency, increased local ventilation efficiency and improved thermal passenger comfort. The novel ventilation concept is intended to exhibit at least the same or better performance under dynamic conditions compared to mixing ventilation.
Secondly, a ground-based, full-sized mockup of a widebody aircraft cabin is in the final stage of construction at DLR, to facilitate experimental simulations and studies of future long-range cabin ventilation concepts. This is a milestone for Clean Sky systems demonstrators as the mock-up will be able to realistically replicate the thermodynamic boundary conditions and exceptionally homogeneous inflow conditions for unprecedented validation of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods in subsequent projects. The facility will be used to simulate the different flight phases (i.e. push-back, take off, climb, cruise, etc.) under static and dynamic conditions.
Thirdly, the project provides an experimental reference database of velocity and temperature distributions, CO2 distributions and local ventilation efficiencies in the cabin for different ventilation systems.
’The design and set-up of the mock-up is part of the project and special attention will be given to the possibility to precisely define the thermal and fluid dynamical boundary conditions,’ says Dr. Schmeling. ’This allows for experimental simulations of operational conditions using temperature-controlled surfaces on the one hand and precise implementation in numerical simulations by appropriate idealisation of the inflow velocity profiles on the other hand.’
In terms of what Clean Sky’s ADVENT project brings to European aviation, Dr. Schmeling points first to the mock-up that provides thermodynamically realistic boundary conditions for static and dynamic investigation of different flight phases.
’To our best knowledge, this new mock-up will be the largest highly modular dual-aisle cabin mock-up allowing the investigation of ventilation concepts regarding their energy efficiency, thermal comfort and capability of integration under precise boundary conditions.’ He adds that the ’new hybrid ventilation concepts revealed their advantages regarding heat removal efficiency, spatial homogeneity of temperature and velocity and thermal comfort (i.e. predicted mean vote, predicted percentage of dissatisfied passengers and equivalent temperature distribution) in numerical simulations’. Patents have been applied for in cooperation with Airbus.
’The capability to integrate the new system in the aircraft itself and in the industrial production process is an additional evaluation parameter,’ says Dr. Schmeling. ’Further, the deployment of a groundbased full-scale test facility for experimental simulations of future long-range cabins will be highly relevant for the European aircraft industry. This mock-up will be very flexible in terms of integrating novel ventilation concepts. Also, an experimental and numerical database for different ventilation systems will be compiled comprising velocity, temperature and CO2 distributions as well as ventilation efficiencies.’
Implementing innovative and efficient ventilation concepts in ’twin aisle’ cabins will impact the aircraft systems by reducing the required cooling demands of the cabin air conditioning system. Several components of the electric environmental control system (E-ECS) will benefit from these new concepts resulting in smaller and lighter components. Furthermore, novel ventilation systems will provide the opportunity to redesign the whole ducting system and save weight. The capability of the deduced ventilation systems to modify the local Air Change Efficiency (ACE) offers the possibility to improve the air quality and thus the passenger well-being with the actual fresh air fraction.
Though the ADVENT project is just past the half-way stage, DLR is already able to make some estimations of the eventual outcomes: ’With respect to the current value of already about 50% of recirculated air, a further reduction of bleed air by e.g. 25% would result in fuel savings of about 0.25%. If we assume that a 25% reduction of bleed air results in the same relative weight reduction of the environmental control system (ECS) – bearing in mind that the novel ventilation systems potentially allow for a reduction of the ECS tubing and a reduced cooling demand – further fuel savings of 0.125 to 0.25% can be achieved,’ indicates Dr. Schmeling.
’Taking the predicted global aviation fuel consumption into account, our estimation corresponds to annual savings of up to 5.3 Mio. tons/yr. of CO2 in 2020. All of this aligns, of course with the European sustainability objectives for “a transport system that is fit for a modern, competitive Europe”.’
’The ADVENT project is addressing this ambition in a way that the new ventilation concepts will help to reduce the fuel consumption and further will allow to promote future energy management systems for modern long-range passenger aircraft,’ concludes Dr. Schmeling. ’Additionally, the innovation action of Clean Sky’s ADVENT project in terms of developing and operating a new ground-based, full-scale test facility will be a contribution to the EU Horizon 2020 ambition of world-class infrastructure.’
Delta extends middle seat blocking through April 2021
Related:
The growing case for middle-seat-free class https://runwaygirlnetwork.com/2021/02/08/the-growing-case-for-middle-seat-free-class/
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[España] El RPAS TARSIS 75 ha completado con éxito la última evaluación operativa en el marco del Programa Rapaz,
- En la última campaña de evaluación operativa de TARSIS para el programa RAPAZ, se han superado los 75 kms. de distancia y más de 14.000 pies de altura en terrenos de complicada orografía.
El RPAS TARSIS 75 ha completado con éxito la última evaluación operativa en el marco del Programa Rapaz, impulsado por la Dirección General de Armamento y Materiales (DGAM) del Ministerio de Defensa. Durante esta campaña de vuelos para el Ejército de Tierra se han certificado las capacidades de alcance y altura de esta plataforma de ala fija fabricada íntegramente en fibra de carbono, al superar los 75 kms. de distancia y más de 14.000 pies de altura en terrenos de complicada orografía. El TARSIS 75 ya había superado en España estas distancias en las instalaciones del INTA Arenosillo, aunque las capacidades son de 150 kms.
Estas pruebas, desarrolladas en la Base del Ejército de Tierra Conde de Gazola en la provincia de León, han servido además para verificar las modificaciones del avión y de la estación de control en tierra, a petición de la DGAM y de los ejércitos de Tierra y Aire, y las prestaciones del TARSIS 75 como sistema de apoyo a fuegos, con identificación de objetivos y corrección de tiro.
El Ministerio de Defensa español puso en marcha el Proyecto Rapaz en 2016 con el objetivo de evaluar propuestas de Sistemas Aéreos Pilotados de Forma Remota (RPAS) de menos de 150 kg para futuras adquisiciones de las Fuerzas Armadas. El RPAS TARSIS 75 de AERTEC Solutions ha completado desde entonces con éxito 4 campañas en el marco de este programa, demostrando las altas prestaciones tecnológicas de este RPAS ligero táctico destinado a aplicaciones de observación y vigilancia.
También en el marco del Programa Rapaz el TARSIS 75 ha mostrado sus capacidades para el Ejército del Aire como posible avión de enseñanza para la Escuela de Sistemas Aéreos No Tripulados en la base aérea de Matacán (Salamanca), junto a las funcionalidades del simulador de RPAS de AERTEC Solutions.
El TARSIS 75 es un sistema RPAS clase I de altas prestaciones operativas., diseñado y construido específicamente para ofrecer dos variables muy importantes: una gran capacidad de integración de carga (más de 12 kg) y amplio tiempo de vuelo (hasta 12 horas). Con estas capacidades, el sistema cuenta con una amplia flexibilidad de configuración al poder adaptarse a la gran mayoría de entornos operativos, incluyendo los de gran complejidad.
Airbus studies “Moon Cruiser” concept for ESA’s cis-lunar transfer vehicle
press release
Versatile, autonomous logistics vehicle to support future lunar missions based on heritage from Orion ESM and ATV
Toulouse, 28 January 2021 - Airbus has been awarded a CLTV (Cis-Lunar Transfer Vehicle) study for a "Moon Cruiser" by the European Space Agency (ESA). According to the study concept (two parallel Phase A/B1), the CLTV is a versatile, autonomous logistics vehicle that could, for example, provide timely and efficient support to NASA and ESA in the implementation of the future Artemis Moon missions. The spacecraft will be based on existing and proven technologies and will complement the multipurpose European Large Logistic Lander (EL3).
The execution of lunar missions, including landing on the Moon and setting up upcoming lunar space station, Gateway, is a complex and challenging task for the international community. It requires a precisely planned chain of supply and logistics missions. The Airbus Moon Cruiser concept supports these challenges in several ways:
· Gateway logistics: the CLTV can transport cargo or fuel for refuelling in lunar orbit and to the Gateway, the international project led by the two main contributors NASA (United States) and ESA (Europe), supporting a sustainable presence on the Moon and exploration beyond and a pillar of NASA’s Artemis programme.
· Transfer of a large Lunar Module into Low Lunar Orbit: The CLTV is required to fly a lander or an ascent stage between the Gateway and the low lunar orbit, to perform landing and ascent missions with larger and more extensive services
· CLTV’s versatility will also allow it to support missions to post-ISS orbital infrastructure in LEO as well as missions in the field of GEO satcom servicing.
The CLTV's design allows multiple mission types to be carried out with a single vehicle and is compatible with various launchers. Airbus’ solution is a mature, versatile and modular concept based on a large portfolio of mission and vehicle designs for Human Space-flight and Exploration built by Airbus for ESA including the Orion European Service Module (ESM), as well as five successful Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) space transporter missions, carrying a total of around 30 tonnes of cargo into space.
“With the Airbus Moon Cruiser concept for CLTV, we are establishing the first building blocks for humans and machines to work together all the way between the Earth and the Moon. CLTV can serve Gateway logistics and add value to the EL3 Large Lunar Lander by enabling additional missions, whether standalone for Europe or as part of wider international co-operation,” said Andreas Hammer, Head of Space Exploration at Airbus.
The CLTV can be launched on Ariane 6, and it could transport a module of over 4.5 tonnes to the Gateway. The European Space Agency ESA could deploy the CLTV in the second half of the decade and it is planned that the CLTV will literally "cruise" on a direct flight path to the Moon.
The target is to validate the following, implementation phase (B2/C/D) of CLTV at the next Ministerial Council in 2022, with the aim of launching in 2027.
Airbus is building the European Service Module for ESA for the new NASA spacecraft Orion, the central spacecraft of future NASA space exploration. The first service module has already been delivered to NASA by Airbus. A second service module is currently being built at Airbus in Bremen. The first launch for Orion - a test flight without astronauts - will take Orion into a lunar orbit and back to Earth under the Artemis I mission and is scheduled for 2021. Read more...
Fly me to the Moon: Airbus wins ESA contract for three more European Service Modules for NASA’s Orion spacecraft
Press Release
Going to the Moon with the Artemis programme involves Europe
Service modules being built by Airbus Bremen - 10 European nations involved
Bremen, 02 February 2021 – The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a further contract with Airbus for the construction of three more European Service Modules (ESM) for Orion, the American crewed spacecraft for the Artemis programme.
With these additional Service Modules, ESA ensures continuity in NASA’s Artemis programme beyond the three modules which are already under contract with Airbus. The European Service Module will be used to fly astronauts to the Moon. As the powerhouse of the new Orion spacecraft for NASA’s Artemis missions, it will provide critical functions such as the propulsion system to get the astronauts to the Moon, and the consumables the astronauts need to stay alive.
“Europe has entered a new decade of exploration. Building six Orion European Service Modules is a venture like no other. Airbus has some of the world’s best minds in space exploration working on this phenomenal vehicle and this new agreement will facilitate many future Moon missions through international partnerships,” said Andreas Hammer, Head of Space Exploration at Airbus. “Europe is a strong and reliable partner in NASA’s Artemis missions and the Orion European Service Module represents a crucial contribution to this.”
David Parker, ESA Director of Human and Robotic Exploration, said: “This contract doubles Europe’s commitment to delivering the vital hardware to send humankind to the Moon on Orion. Together with the elements we are building for the lunar Gateway we are guaranteeing seats for ESA astronauts to explore our Solar System as well as securing employment and technological know-how for Europe.”
The ESM is cylindrical in shape and about four metres in diameter and height. It has four solar arrays (19 metres across when unfurled) that generate enough energy to power two households. The service module’s 8.6 tonnes of fuel can power one main engine and 32 smaller thrusters. The ESM weighs a total of just over 13 tonnes. In addition to its function as the main propulsion system for the Orion spacecraft, the ESM will be responsible for orbital manoeuvring and position control. It also provides the crew with the central elements of life support such as water and oxygen, and regulates thermal control while attached to the crew module.
Artemis I, the first non-crewed Orion test flight with a European Service Module will fly in 2021. It is as part of the following mission, Artemis II that the first astronauts will then fly around the Moon and back to Earth. With Artemis III, NASA will land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024, using innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before. The ESMs announced today will be used for the Artemis IV to VI missions, the first two of which are part of the European contribution to the international Gateway planned to be assembled starting from 2024 in a lunar orbit.
During the development and construction of the ESM, Airbus has drawn on its experience as prime contractor for ESA’s Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV), which provided the crew on board the International Space Station with regular deliveries of test equipment, spare parts, food, air, water and fuel.
@NASA @Nasa_Orion @ESA @LockheedMartin #SpaceMatters #Artemis #OrionESM @AirbusSpace Read more...
Boeing’s First Japan KC-46 Tanker Takes Flight
press release
- First KC-46 for an international customer completes successful first flight
- Japan Air Self-Defense Force scheduled to receive tanker this year
EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 9, 2021 – The first Boeing [NYSE: BA] KC-46 tanker destined for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) took to the skies on its maiden flight yesterday. This successful flight highlights an important milestone as the aircraft now transitions into the certification phase of development.
“This is an exciting milestone for the JASDF and Boeing,” said Jamie Burgess, KC-46 program manager. “Japan is getting closer to receiving the most advanced air refueling tanker in the world.”
Japan is the KC-46 program’s first international customer and is scheduled to receive its first jet this year.
“Boeing’s KC-46 and its robust defensive systems will play an invaluable role in the security alliance between our two countries,” said Will Shaffer, president of Boeing Japan. “This tanker’s ability to carry cargo and passengers also makes it a critical tool to support humanitarian relief efforts across the Pacific region and beyond.”
The KC-46 refueling certification encompasses U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and JASDF aircraft.
The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a $279 million contract for the JASDF’s first KC-46A tanker in December 2017. The agreement was completed through the Foreign Military Sale process between the U.S. government and Japan. Japan is now on contract for a total of four KC-46 tankers.
Boeing is assembling KC-46A aircraft for both the U.S. Air Force and Japan on its 767 production line in Everett, Washington. Boeing’s Japanese partners produce 16% of the KC-46 airframe structure.
For more information on Boeing Defense, Space & Security, visit www.boeing.com. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense and @BoeingSpace.
Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As a top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth. Read more...
IATA Offers Free Training to Former Cabin Crew Transitioning into Job Market
press release
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is offering an online training course to help laid-off airline cabin crew members re-enter the job market. This course will be offered free of charge for those who register between 9 and 23 February.
A survey of 800 cabin crew who have lost their jobs in the crisis found that 78% wanted help to identify skills that can enable them to transfer into other roles.
The three-hour Cabin Crew – Leveraging Professional Skills course was developed with input from former crew members to meet this need by enabling crew to enhance, promote and recognize professional skills that can be leveraged in other jobs. Additionally, crew will learn practical tips for preparing for the job application process and will have an opportunity to learn from the experience of colleagues that have already transitioned to other roles outside the industry.
“Tens of thousands of crew members have lost their jobs in this crisis. This offering is a salute to their service to the industry. We hope to welcome them back to aviation, but for now many will need to seek opportunities to earn a livelihood in other sectors. Fortunately, they have the skills to make the transition. Applying IATA’s training expertise, we will help them to present these skills to potential employers,” said Stéphanie Siouffi, IATA’s Director of Training.
IATA is proud to offer this as part of an ongoing #WeAreAviation campaign, in solidarity with the dedicated and passionate people who make up the aviation sector around the world. Prior to the crisis, IATA trained some 100,000 aviation professionals annually from around the world in critical skills to build their careers.
> Learn more & register for the Cabin Crew – Leveraging Professional Skills course
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Lockheed Martin Selects ABL Space Systems Rocket to Power First UK Vertical Satellite Launch
press release
HARWELL, Oxford, Feb. 8, 2021 – Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has contracted ABL Space Systems, of El Segundo, California, a developer of low-cost launch vehicles and launch systems for the small satellite industry, to supply a rocket and associated launch services for the company’s first UK vertical satellite launch.
The project known as UK Pathfinder Launch is planned to be the first ever vertical small satellite launch from UK soil, from Scotland in 2022. It will also be the first UK commercial launch for U.S.-based ABL Space Systems’ new RS1 rocket.
Nik Smith, Regional Director, Lockheed Martin Space, said: “We are absolutely committed to the success of this programme and the world class capability that ABL Space Systems brings will allow us to build on our long-standing partnership with the UK and strengthen the growth of the UK space sector, aligned to the UK Government’s prosperity and industrial strategy.”
ABL Space Systems’ flexible, integrated GSO launch system, and RS1 rocket, allows for a rapid and cost-effective deployment with outstanding launch performance.
“ABL Space Systems is proud to partner with Lockheed Martin on the UK Pathfinder Launch Program," said Harry O'Hanley, co-Founder and CEO of ABL Space Systems. "Our team was founded to deliver new launch capabilities, on-demand. We're thrilled at the opportunity bring our system to Shetland’s launch site and execute this ground-breaking mission with our partners.”
Lockheed Martin’s UK Pathfinder Launch supports the UK Space Agency’s commercial spaceflight programme – Launch UK. In October, the UK Space Agency confirmed Lockheed Martin’s plans to move its programme to the Shetland Space Centre and in January, planning proposals were submitted for the space launch facility in Unst.
Ian Annett, Deputy CEO, UK Space Agency said: “We want the UK to be the first in Europe to launch small satellites into orbit, attracting innovative businesses from all over the world, accelerating the development of new technologies and creating hundreds of high-skilled jobs across the whole of the UK. Lockheed Martin’s selection of ABL Space Systems for their UK Pathfinder launch brings us one step closer to realising this ambition – putting the UK firmly on the map as Europe’s leading small satellite launch destination.
“In this challenging time, it’s more important than ever that we support technologies that will help create jobs and economic growth, enabling people and businesses across the country to benefit from the commercial opportunities offered by the UK’s growing space sector and the many firms throughout its supply chain.”
The addition of ABL Space Systems as a partner completes Lockheed Martin’s UK Pathfinder Launch programme team. On launch day, ABL Space Systems’ RS1 rocket will lift off from Shetland Space Centre, in Unst, Shetland, the UK's most northerly island. Once in orbit, the rocket will release a small launch orbital manoeuvring vehicle, an agile platform built by MOOG, in Reading, UK, which can carry and deploy up to six 6U CubeSats, optimising orbital placement and timing for each small satellite’s respective missions.
To demonstrate the full value of this new UK space transportation capability, two of the CubeSats deployed will be Lockheed Martin’s own technology demonstration spacecraft.
In 2019, ABL Space Systems announced that it had received a strategic investment from Lockheed Martin Ventures to advance the launch provider’s development and test programme.
About ABL Space Systems
ABL Space Systems was founded in 2017 to develop low-cost launch vehicles and launch systems for the small satellite industry. ABL is headquartered in El Segundo, California, U.S. To learn more, visit: www.ablspacesystems.com
About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 114,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. Please follow @LMNews on Twitter for the latest announcements and news across the corporation. Read more...
Gyrocopters: Skyworks Aeronautics Announces $100 Million Investment Commitment from GEM as Company Seeks to Go Public in Coming Months
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ScoutHawk from Skyworks on Vimeo.
Hawk4 | "Zero-runway" Takeoffs and Landings from Skyworks on Vimeo.
- Skyworks Aeronautics Also Strengthens Executive Team with Recent New Hires and Adds to Electric Aircraft Partnership. The Company envisages going public via SPAC merger or traditional IPO
CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Skyworks Aeronautics Corp. today announced a $100 million investment commitment from GEM Global Yield LLC SCS (“GEM”), the Luxembourg based private alternative investment group. Under the agreement, GEM will provide Skyworks Aeronautics with a Share Subscription Facility of up to $100 million for a 36-month term following a public listing of the Skyworks Aeronautics common stock. Skyworks Aeronautics will control the timing and maximum amount of drawdowns under this facility and has no minimum drawdown obligation. Concurrent with a public listing of Skyworks Aeronautics shares, Skyworks Aeronautics will issue warrants to GEM to purchase up to 3% of the common stock of the company.
“We think that GEM is an excellent partner that believes in our vision and understands the promise and potential of our technology.”
“Skyworks Aeronautics looks forward to working with GEM as we continue to work to bring our cutting-edge aircraft to market,” stated Mr. Steve Stevanovich, Skyworks Aeronautics Co-Executive Director. “We think that GEM is an excellent partner that believes in our vision and understands the promise and potential of our technology.”
Skyworks Aeronautics will use the funds to move forward with the commercialization of its cutting-edge gyroplane aircraft, including the eGyro™ electric air taxi geared towards urban air mobility and the 400 mph VertiJet™ VTOL aircraft that competes directly with helicopters, but at a much higher speed, longer range and lower operating cost.
Brig. General (Ret.) John Michel, Skyworks Aeronautics Co-Executive Director added, “With our highly experienced leadership and technical team and strong intellectual property portfolio, this commitment by GEM positions Skyworks Aeronautics to become the first company in the world to commercialize gyrocraft at scale. Be it providing affordable vertical lift alternatives to developing nations, progressive electric aircraft capabilities for air carriers, or game-changing vertical takeoff and landing platforms, Skyworks Aeronautics is now poised to be a transformative force in the rapidly evolving air mobility industry.”
This agreement comes on the heels of Skyworks Aeronautics recent announcement of its electric aircraft collaboration with Mobius.energy to produce the state-of-the-art electric gyroplane, the eGyro™. The Skyworks Aeronautics eGyro™ has been designed to leverage the fundamental safety and exceptional performance advantages of a gyroplane to create an eVTOL system that provides an unparalleled practical, affordable, and scalable approach to intra and inter-city passenger and air cargo transport. With a proprietary autorotating main rotor design delivering exceptional performance and unprecedented safety, the eGyro™ overcomes a key limitation of many of today’s existing eVTOL system concepts. Mobius.energy developed an advanced battery module architecture optimized for electric aircraft.
Amongst other senior and technical staff, Skyworks Aeronautics has also recently added Mr. Barry Jones as its Director of Aviation Operations and Chief Pilot. Mr. Jones, a retired British Army Air Corps Captain, is a highly decorated aviator and instructor in numerous aircraft. He has also served as the Chairman of the British Rotorcraft Association (the organization that governs Gyro flying in the UK), has successfully worked with aviation regulators across Europe on certification matters, and has spent the last decade working in the field of Gyro Research & Development, successfully developing and launching several significant gyroplane enhancing concepts. He is leading Skyworks Aeronautics certification efforts. The full senior leadership team can be viewed on the following link: https://www.skyworks-aero.com/#section-teamone
About Skyworks Aeronautics
Skyworks Aeronautics is the world leader in gyronautics, the study and design of sustained autorotative flight represented by the company’s gyroplane technology. Skyworks Aeronautics has more than 40 patents with several more underway, all obtained in an effort to radically change not only the way gyroplanes are perceived, but also the way they are utilized. From mass personnel transportation, agriculture, defense, and border protection to literally changing the economies of developing nations, Skyworks Aeronautics’ goal is to change the nature of vertical flight. For more information about the company, its products, and individual members of the Skyworks Aeronautics team, visit www.Skyworks-Aero.com
About GEM
Global Emerging Markets (“GEM”) is a $3.4 billion, alternative investment group with offices in Paris, New York, and Los Angeles. GEM manages a diverse set of investment vehicles focused on emerging markets and has completed over 400 transactions in 70 countries. Each investment vehicle has a different degree of operational control, risk-adjusted return, and liquidity profile. The family of funds and investment vehicles provide GEM and its partners with exposure to: Small-Mid Cap Management Buyouts, Private Investments in Public Equities and select venture investments. For more information: http://www.gemny.com
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