The Atkins/Stirling partnership, which will provide a broad range of engineering services to Airbus, was recently awarded a contract for Landing Gear Structures, having been also awarded the Landing Gear Systems contract earlier this year.

More specifically, Atkins/Stirling will be supporting the Design Integration and Research & Technology activities of the Airbus Landing Gear Centre of Competence, including:

• nose, fuselage and wing landing gear structures
• wheels, tyres & brakes
• braking, steering, extension/retraction & monitoring systems.

The initial contract will cover Airbus’ civil aircraft, including the A350 XWB, A380, A330/A340, and A320 families, as well as Research and Technology for the next generation of aircraft.

Neil Kirk, managing director of Atkins’ Aerospace business, said:

“Atkins is well-placed to act landing gear engineering services because of our broad technical capability, our in-depth experience of Airbus aircraft and our partnership approach to working with clients. The contract covers a broad range of aircraft – from those already in service, through those in development, to aircraft still in the research and technology phase – so developing a close working relationship with our client is central to overall
success.”

Andrew Pfeil, technical director at Stirling Dynamics, added:

"The recent award of the landing gear Structures package fully compliments the existing Landing Gear Systems package and will permit Atkins and Stirling to provide a fully rounded support from concept and throughout programme lifecycles across multiple disciplines. It provides the mechanism for both Stirling and Atkins to each provide real added value and embraces their respective significant expertise and individual strengths in one support framework."

ENDS

A|D|S, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation today (Wednesday) welcomed the arrival of the Airbus A380 as it makes its debut at Manchester Airport.  The aircraft has been operating for some time from London Heathrow.  Manchester is its second UK destination and the first regional or non-hub airport to have the A380, which is an important milestone in the increasing use of this world-leading aircraft.

The Airbus A380 is more fuel-efficient than a hybrid car, travelling 100 passenger kilometres in standard three class configuration, using less than 3 litres of fuel (a hybrid car uses 4 litres) and produces about the same perceived noise on take-off (82 decibels or dB) as that produced by heavy traffic, less than that experienced inside a London underground train (93dB).  When fitted with Rolls-Royce engines and with major contributions from other UK companies the Airbus A380 is up to 50 per cent made in Britain.

The aircraft, operated by Emirates, is due to arrive at Manchester Airport at around 1225 today and depart at around 1520 (for today only) as it begins a regular daily scheduled service that will usually depart at 1410.

Ian Godden, Chairman of A|D|S, said:

“The UK aerospace sector is number one in Europe and second only to the US globally.  The Airbus A380 is an embodiment of this success.  Up to half of the aircraft is made in Britain with major contributions from many world-leading British-based companies of all sizes, especially the wings made by Airbus in the UK.”

ENDS

To read the letter, see the attachment below.

Safety Managers are requested to review the changes on the attached spreadsheet, add comments where appropriate, and return the completed document to mel.james@adsgroup.org.uk to enable coordinated industry comments to be supplied to the Ministry of Defence. 

Comments will be reviewed by the Ministry in early September so your urgent support with this review is requested.  Safety Managers and associated specialists in defence industries will also wish to know that A|D|S is proposing to form a Defence Systems Safety Group (DSSG) which will enable members to debate the increasing number of safety issues which affect defence business across the full spectrum of activities.

The visit highlighted the way in which companies such as Aeromet are able to lead the world through research and development, capital investment and manufacturing excellence.

Aeromet has a global reputation for producing aluminium and magnesium sand castings, aluminium investment castings and forming titanium parts for the aerospace and defence industries – and through its commitment to customer service and innovation has grown a customer base that includes some of the biggest names in these sectors.

He said:

"Having open dialogue directly with local and central government through trade associations, such as EEF and ADS (AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation), will ensure that high value manufacturing in the South East receives the support it needs. With the right support, manufacturing in the UK will continue to provide growth, employment and value to both local and national economies."

Aeromet, like many other companies in the aerospace manufacturing sector, has experienced the effects of a severe industry downturn over the past eighteen months. Employing 130 people in Kent and 380 nationally, Aeromet has weathered the downturn and maintained the financial strength required for a return to growth. Through steady investment in research and development, capital equipment and training, Aeromet is well positioned for future growth and the increasing order book will lead to recruitment of additional staff during 2011

Gordon Henderson MP, said:

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to discuss some of the key issues currently of concern to manufacturers, particularly as it is the stated intention of government to move towards a more balanced economy. Aeromet demonstrates how it is possible for local companies to be successful on the world stage through a culture of best practice, innovation and technical excellence."

Commenting on government commitments to create a more balanced economy, Jeff Alexander, Head of External Affairs for EEF in the South East, said:

"Manufacturing is such an important sector for the future of the South East economy that it deserves to be celebrated and recognised as a key contributor to wealth and prosperity. With manufacturing in the South East estimated to be worth around £18bn and employing 320,000 people, we must encourage government to create an environment that is conducive to success so that the stated objective of a more balanced economy becomes a reality."  

To read the full article in Public Service, click here

Graham Chisnall, MD of Commercial Aerospace & Operations at A|D|S takes part in the debate.

To read the full article, click here

Issued: Friday 13 August 2010 for immediate release
Our reference: A|D|S PR 2010 061

LIAM FOX SPEECH - DEFENCE INDUSTRY COMMENT

A|D|S, the UK’s Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space trade organisation today (Friday) commented on the speech made by Dr Liam Fox, the Secretary of State for Defence, this morning in Westminster.  As the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) process approaches its publication date Dr Fox’s speech is made during a crucial period for Britain’s defence policy.

Rees Ward, Chief Executive of A|D|S, said:

“The Secretary of State has outlined a clear path ahead for UK defence in his speech today and we fully support his intentions while recognising that his plans must take account of the difficult economic situation in which the country finds itself.

“Dr Fox has set out the National Security Council’s strategy of addressing the most immediate threats to our national security while maintaining the ability to identify and deal with emerging ones before they become bigger threats to the UK.  We believe that this balanced approach is correct and welcome the retention of the longer-term focus, which benefits the Armed Forces and allows industry to plan with some certainty for the future.  We look forward to supporting the implementation of such an approach to enable industry to continue to supply our troops with world-class equipment.  Industry also intends to play a full role working with the Defence Reform Unit to improve the interaction between MOD and industry to drive further benefits for the Armed Forces.

“Maintaining the medium term capabilities required to address emerging threats will require the sustainment if not enhancement of the small percentage of the defence budget earmarked for investment in research and technology.  This investment is not something that you can turn off and on like a tap.  Once the industrial capabilities it supports are lost, they are gone forever and can only be reinstated at disproportionate cost as demonstrated by in the civil nuclear energy industry for example.  This must be kept in mind along with his welcome identification of emerging capabilities such as unmanned systems and cyber-security when the tough choices of which Dr Fox speaks are made.

“Although defence should contribute to solving the current financial difficulties, Dr Fox would be justified in looking around the Cabinet table to challenge other departments to match the contribution to budget savings that defence has already made over the last two decades.  Defence spending is half the percentage of Government spending and of GDP that it was twenty years ago.  Other departments, where budgets have grown substantially over the same period, should be challenged in the same manner before more is asked of defence given that the demands on our Armed Forces exceed what was originally planned within the current budget.”

According to data from the Treasury spending changes in real terms by department, including defence, are represented in the attached PDF and Excel files.

ENDS

For more information please contact:
* Matthew Knowles, Head of Media Relations, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4538
* Samuel Jones, Communications Manager, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4521

A|D|S is also on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ADSgroupUK.

Notes to Editors:

1. The defence industry employs over 300,000 people across all regions of the UK and contributes over £35 billion per year to the British economy.  It is number one in Europe and second only to the US globally with an average of over 20 per cent of the global export market, generating £7.2 billion in export revenue in 2009.  Industry supports the drive for greater efficiency to boost our frontline armed forces and understands the constrained fiscal environment in which the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has to operate.  Currently 4,000 UK industry personnel are in Afghanistan supporting the Armed Forces.  Further, as an innovative industry – representing 10 per cent of British manufacturing and one of the few UK sectors to retain a world-leading position – UK-based defence companies are confident that they can deliver for our troops both now and in the future working with the Government to implement the SDSR and forthcoming Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS).
2. A|D|S is the trade organisation advancing UK AeroSpace, Defence and Security industries with Farnborough International Limited as a wholly-owned subsidiary.  A|D|S also encompasses the British Aviation Group (BAG).  It is formed from the merger of the Association of Police and Public Security Suppliers (APPSS), the Defence Manufacturers Association (DMA) and the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC).  For more information see www.adsgroup.org.uk.

For more information see document below.

Issued: 12 August 2010 for immediate release
Our reference: A|D|S PR 2010 060

NEW AEROSPACE TEAM UNVEILED AT UK INDUSTRY ORGANISATION

Recently-appointed MD Commercial Aerospace & Operations to head up expanded department

A|D|S, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation today (Thursday) announced that it has created an expanded aerospace team to deliver support and services to the industry, which is number one in Europe and second only to the US worldwide.

The Aerospace, Space and Operations Team in A|D|S that reports to Graham Chisnall, recently-appointed by A|D|S as Managing Director Aerospace and Operations, will now consist of:

* Jeff Taylor, Policy & Strategy;
* Alan Fisher, Membership & International Sales;
* Kevin Morris, Sustainable Aviation;
* Anthony Burn, Space;
* Elizabeth Donnelly, Skills;
* Phil Curnock and Sarah Barnard, SC21  and Supply Chain;
* Sameer Savani, Technology ,
* Mel James, Airworthiness and Quality
* John Thacker, Technical Standards; and
* Kate Norton, Assistant to MD and Secretary.

Graham Chisnall, Managing Director Aerospace and Operations at A|D|S, said:

“I am very pleased to have been able to create such a strong team to support our world-class aerospace members.

“Jeff Taylor’s experience with aerospace, defence, the former DTI and the DMA before the merger with SBAC to create A|D|S, will strongly reinforce our ability to take the initiative on setting the strategy and policy framework in aerospace in the future.  Alan Fisher is moving into the aerospace team to enable him to extend his wealth of membership and international sales experience further on behalf of aerospace member companies. He will continue to work closely with colleagues in membership recruitment and services.  I am also delighted to have appointed Sameer Savani to become Technology Advisor. He joins us from the Aerospace and Defence Knowledge Transfer Network and is a highly-respected professional who has been heavily involved with the National Aerospace Technology Strategy.  Finally, to complete the picture, I am pleased to announce that Anthony Burn has been appointed as the full time Space Sector Manager in A|D|S with the mission to develop the space membership and work jointly with UKspace. This will build on his previous Space sector experience and the contacts he has built up during his recent secondment with the AIA in the US.  They will join their existing colleagues within my team who are already acknowledged experts and thought-leaders in their fields.

“I and the Aerospace team will also be working closely with Kevin Jones, the Defence Director dedicated to Military Aerospace and C4ISTAR. I believe these changes set up the Aerospace team with very strong skills and capabilities to not only ensure we represent the Aerospace members to the best degree possible but also to enable us in A|D|S to be able to form and shape the agenda in these vital sectors with the new Government and internationally.  I know that colleagues and our members wish them well in their new roles.”

ENDS

For more information please contact:
* Matthew Knowles, Head of Media Relations, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4538
* Samuel Jones, Communications Manager, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4521

A|D|S is also on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ADSgroupUK.

Notes to Editors:

1. A|D|S is the trade organisation advancing UK AeroSpace, Defence and Security industries with Farnborough International Limited as a wholly-owned subsidiary.  A|D|S also encompasses the British Aviation Group (BAG).  It is formed from the merger of the Association of Police and Public Security Suppliers (APPSS), the Defence Manufacturers Association (DMA) and the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC).  For more information see www.adsgroup.org.uk.

Issued: Tuesday 10 August 2010
Our reference: A|D|S PR 2010 059

EMBARGOED UNTIL 0001 WEDNESDAY 11 AUGUST 2010

HALF YEAR ANALYSIS FROM UK AEROSPACE INDUSTRY PUBLISHED

New report and figures post 2010 Farnborough International Airshow out today

A|D|S, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation today (Wednesday) published a short report updating figures on the performance of the aerospace sector post the Farnborough International Airshow.  The figures update the 2010 A|D|S aerospace survey published in mid-July and reflect the encouraging order figures announced at Farnborough.

The main findings are:
* Aerospace is bouncing back after a tough period following the global recession.
* The UK industry remained resilient and revenues rose by 5.4 per cent in 2009 to £22.2 billion.
* A strong performance at the 2010 Farnborough International Airshow (19 – 25 July) saw $47 billion (~£31 billion) of orders placed.  This was down on the record performance of $88.7 billion of 2008 but up on the previous record of $46 billion from 2006.
* Boeing (29 per cent) and Airbus (26 per cent) represented the majority of this $47 billion figure.
* The largest single order at Farnborough was from General Electric’s leasing company for 60 aircraft from the Airbus A320 family at $4.9 billion.
* Embraer and Sukhoi also had a successful Farnborough 2010.
* The contrast between civil and defence aerospace reflects global circumstances with the civil side recovering at a time when defence budgets are under pressure.
* Growth in both sectors is significant in emerging economies such as the Middle East, India, Brazil and China as also reflected in the 2010 A|D|S aerospace survey.

Graham Chisnall, Managing Director, Commercial Aerospace and Operations at A|D|S, said:

“The aerospace sector in the UK is in a strong position.  It is number one in Europe and second only to the US globally, employing over 100,000 people across the country and with a turnover in 2009 of £22.2 billion.  The strong orders at Farnborough and the optimism of the industry around the Airshow reflects the fact that, despite pressures on the defence budget, the industry is on the up, especially in the UK, buoyed by the recovery of the civil sector.

“This position of British success has been achieved through a combination of factors such as a strong UK presence by major multinational companies, the agility of the sector that in large part is delivered by innovative small and medium sized businesses in the global aerospace supply chain, farsighted historical investment in technology by both industry and Government alongside strong performance in export markets.  This recipe for success must continue so that we can maintain the benefits this provides for our economy and to enable the current Government to deliver on its priorities around jobs, rebalancing the economy and increasing UK exports.”

ENDS

For more information please contact:
* Matthew Knowles, Head of Media Relations, A|D|S
   Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4538
* Samuel Jones, Communications Manager, A|D|S
   Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4521

A|D|S is also on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ADSgroupUK.

Notes to Editors:

1. The report is attached below.
2. The A|D|S 2010 aerospace survey is available at http://tinyurl.com/adssurvey2010.
3. A|D|S is the trade organisation advancing UK AeroSpace, Defence and Security industries with Farnborough International Limited as a wholly-owned subsidiary.  A|D|S also encompasses the British Aviation Group (BAG).  It is formed from the merger of the Association of Police and Public Security Suppliers (APPSS), the Defence Manufacturers Association (DMA) and the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC).  For more information see www.adsgroup.org.uk.
4. For more information about the Farnborough International Airshow please go to www.farnborough.com.  2010 Farnborough International Airshow figures can be found at http://www.sbac.co.uk/community/cms/content/preview/news_item_view.asp?i=21215&t=0.

At the end of June the large commercial jet backlog was down 204 aircraft on the level at the start of the year. The backlog has been falling for some time now and the Second Quarter was, in fact, the seventh consecutive Quarter with a backlog decline. What has changed though is the rate of decline; so far this year the drop has been half that of the first six months of last year.

Confidence does seem to be returning to the industry. The order intake is improving though what is clearly noticeable is that just a few airlines and leasing customers are placing those orders. In the First Quarter there were orders for 24 A330s, 25 A350s, 75 737s and 25 787s. United Airlines ordered the 25 A350s and 25 787s in Q1 and Virgin Blue ordered 40 737s. These were huge orders considering the downturn. In the Second Quarter there was the Emirates A380 order which in cash terms was the largest airline order ever placed. However, up until June the manufacturers were a little worried about the composition of the order intake. By the end of March, seven aircraft programs had not taken any orders at all. By the end of May, six of these programs still did not have orders. The reprieve came in June and by the end of the month only the A318 was without a 2010 order.

Farnborough in July provided a whole raft of new aircraft orders, for both large commercial jets as well as regional aircraft. As encouraging as these orders are, they do not signal the start of orders recovery in the industry. That may still be some way off and the order intake in the three months between August and October could actually be relatively low. It is expected to improve again at the end of the year though.

What is interesting about the current industry position is that the manufacturers are not that concerned with backlog decline, chiefly because it is a slow and progressive decline. At the end of June there were 6,659 large commercial jets on backlog order. This is roughly the same number as in mid-December 2007, before the massive increase in orders and the huge backlog gain.

What the manufacturers are concerned about though is how best to increase production of single-aisle aircraft. Both Boeing and Airbus have made recent announcements about this. Airbus will take A320 Family production to 40 per month before long and Boeing will take the 737 up to 35 per month. The demand is there for even higher rates but the problem the manufacturers face involves getting hundreds of suppliers to ramp up their production capacity. Not all want to or are able to.

There were a number of positive signs for the industry in the Second Quarter. Farnborough in July will fuel the Q3 order intake and while nobody expects the year-end backlog to be above the figure at the start of the year, the actual decline will probably not be that great.

Philip Abbott

Source: Industry Research Group, Q2 2010

Please consult the attached documents for more information.

To read the article please click here.  Please note that a subscription may be required to read the article online.

A|D|S, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation today (Wednesday) welcomed the announcement that BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will supply the Indian Armed forces with 57 Hawk trainer aircraft and ensure 200 jobs in the UK.

Rees Ward, Chief Executive of A|D|S, said:

“Today’s announcement is further confirmation that UK defence Industry produces first class products and is highly competitive on the world stage. It is also a clear indicator of why the UK defence industry is second only to the US in terms of exports, with increased exports last year up to £7.2Bn.  This agreement  is  the product of sustained investment by the Government and Industry over decades.

“India has established itself as one of the most exciting emerging aerospace and defence markets with Bangalore being its beating industrial heart, and it is only right for the UK to establish itself here.

“UK industry is developing a number of ground breaking partnerships with Indian industry which should lead to improved support to both nations’ Armed Forces and increased economic value. We hope this partnership is a stepping stone to further collaboration between our two nations on projects such as the Eurofighter Typhoon.”

ENDS

For more information please contact:

• Matthew Knowles, Head of Media Relations, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4538
  Mobile: +44 (0) 7595 863 749
  E-mail: matthew.knowles@adsgroup.org.uk
• Samuel Jones, Communications Manager, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4521
  Mobile: +44 (0) 7827 309 732
  E-mail: samuel.jones@adsgroup.org.uk

A|D|S is also on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ADSgroupUK.

Notes to Editors:

1. A|D|S is the trade organisation advancing UK AeroSpace, Defence and Security industries with Farnborough International Limited as a wholly-owned subsidiary.  A|D|S also encompasses the British Aviation Group (BAG).  It is formed from the merger of the Association of Police and Public Security Suppliers (APPSS), the Defence Manufacturers Association (DMA) and the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC).  For more information see www.adsgroup.org.uk.
2. A|D|S has two office in India (Delhi and Bangalore) which are operating to support UK small and medium sized enterprises seeking to work with Indian partners.

Speaking at the Farnborough International Airshow, the Minister for Universities and Science David Willetts, said:

“Britain’s first CubeSat will bring major benefits to the UK space industry. Firms will now have a cheap and quick way to test their latest prototypes.  Running a competition to see which experiments will go up with UKube1 is an inventive way to ensure it is fitted with the most creative and innovative payload ideas.”

Dr David Williams, Chief executive (Acting) of the UK Space Agency, added:

 “A CubeSat programme will allow us to fast-track and test some of the UK’s new and cutting-edge space technology and perform unique science at a relatively low cost. These satellites may be smaller than your home computer, but, with the payloads that our skilled scientists will add to them, they are sure to make up in innovation what they lack in size.”

Craig Clark, CEO of Clyde Space, said:

 “The launch of the Cubesat Challenge programme is a tremendous opportunity for us. As with all space related business, the best way to market space products is through their successful demonstration in orbit. By providing the Cubesat platform, we will benefit immensely from the opportunity and so it is vital to the growth of Clyde Space as a leading CubeSat company. I feel also that this programme is vital for the UK’s commercial exploitation and export of CubeSat technology in this rapidly growing market.”

For more information, see attachment below.

A|D|S, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation and its subsidiary company Farnborough International Limited (FIL) today (Friday) announced the orders and attendee figures to date for the Farnborough International Airshow, held in Hampshire, UK between 19 and 25 July 2010.

The 2010 show was sold out with an increased number of exhibiting companies (1450) compared to the 2008 show (1393).  This year’s event saw good engagement from decision-makers with 11 UK Government ministers, as well as ministers from overseas plus 70 delegations from 44 countries, in attendance.  With over 120,000 visitors on trade days and an expected 160,000 on the forthcoming public weekend this will put 2010 almost on a par with the total numbers for 2008, which were 285,000.

Orders for the show so far total $47 billion (~£31 billion) and the Airshow has welcomed 120,461 people.  As expected given the current economic climate visitor numbers on trade days are down around 8 per cent on 2008.  The show also contributes about £20 million to the local economy around Farnborough.  The peak boom year was 2008 when the show saw $88.7 billion of orders.  For comparison 2006 saw $46 billion worth of orders taken.

Ian Godden, Chairman of A|D|S, said:

“The 2010 Farnborough International Airshow has been very successful and the figures demonstrate the mood of strong optimism that there has been around the show this year, which is very encouraging given the current global economic climate.  To see over $47 billion dollars worth of business done and the quality of the business transactions at the show is a testament to the endurance of our sectors, their positive contribution to UK and world trade as well as the significance of the show itself.

“Congratulations go to Shaun and his team at FIL for a fantastic job well done and my thanks also go to my A|D|S colleagues who have helped to make the week a very positive one.”

Shaun Ormrod, Chief Executive of FIL, said:

“We thank all our guests at this year’s show for attending and contributing to a successful Airshow.  We hope very much to see them again in 2012.  The FIL team has done a marvellous job and they deserve both my thanks and the thanks of our guests this week for ensuring such a smooth-running event.  We’re looking forward to welcoming around 3,000 young people today, Futures Day, plus an expected 160,000 people for the public weekend to round off what has been a tremendous week at Farnborough.”

A final total for the whole week of the Airshow will be published early next week.

Farnborough facts:

• The World’s Largest Temporary Exhibition.
• The “build up” period takes four months prior to the start of the show.
• 3,600 tonnes of temporary structures are transported to the show site.
• 90,000 sq m’s of structures are erected on site, providing tailor-made floor space that would accommodate London's Royal Albert Hall no fewer than 30 times.

ENDS 

For more information please contact:

Matthew Knowles, Head of Media Relations, A|D|S
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4538
Mobile: +44 (0) 7595 863 749
E-mail: matthew.knowles@adsgroup.org.uk

Samuel Jones, Communications Manager, A|D|S
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4521
Mobile: +44 (0) 7827 309 732
E-mail: samuel.jones@adsgroup.org.uk

Philippa Ewart, Head of Marketing & Communications, Farnborough International Limited
Tel: +44 (0) 1252 532 830
Mobile: +44 (0) 7730 817 825
Email: philippa.ewart@farnborough.com

A|D|S is also on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ADSgroupUK.

Notes to Editors:

1. Farnborough International Limited (www.farnborough.com), world-renowned organisers of the Farnborough International Airshow and other similar events around the globe, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of A|D|S that in turn was formed in October 2009 from the merger of the Society of British Aerospace Companies, the Association of Police and Public Security Suppliers and the Defence Manufacturers Association.
2. A|D|S is the trade organisation advancing UK AeroSpace, Defence and Security industries with Farnborough International Limited as a wholly-owned subsidiary.  A|D|S also encompasses the British Aviation Group (BAG).  For more information see www.adsgroup.org.uk.
3. The 2010 Farnborough International Airshow takes place between the 19 and 25 of July 2010.  For more information please go to www.farnborough.com.

Farnborough , England — Student rocketeers from France, the United Kingdom and the United States competed today in the Third Annual Transatlantic Rocketry Challenge.

The four-member team from Penn Manor High School in Millersville, PA posted the best score to win the international fly-off.  Horsforth School in Leeds, England placed second. The French team was unable to launch its rocket due to technical problems. 

“We are so excited that we won,” said team member Brendan Stoeckl. “We succeeded because of practice, good data analysis and teamwork.”

The international rocketry challenge is the culmination of three separate competitions: the Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC), UKAYRoC and the French Rocketry Challenge. Each contest brings together teams of middle and high school students to design, build and launch model rockets. This year the challenge was to launch a rocket that reaches an altitude of 825 feet, stays aloft for 40-45 seconds and returns a raw egg unbroken.  As part of their score, teams also had to give an eight minute presentation on their rocket design to a panel of international judges.

Sponsored by the Aerospace Industries Association and the National Association of Rocketry in the U.S.; ADS, Tri Polus Ltd, Space Connections and the Royal Aeronautical Society in the UK; and GIFAS and Planéte Sciences in France, the programs are designed to encourage students to pursue careers in aerospace.  

“Based on today’s competition, the future of our industry is looking pretty bright,” said Marion Blakey, president and CEO of AIA. “The level of enthusiasm of the participants is phenomenal, and each team deserves congratulations for winning their home competition and inspiring other students.”

AIA created the Team America Rocketry Challenge in 2003 to celebrate the centennial of flight and to generate interest in aerospace careers among young people. The success of the program encouraged UK aerospace industry leaders to create the UKAYRoC in 2007 with similar goals in mind. Last year at the 2009 Paris Airshow, France announced they would compete as well in the international rocketry challenge.

The Raytheon Company, which for the last five years has sent the TARC winning team to Airshows at Farnborough and Paris, is sponsoring all three teams as they tour the airshow and London. 

Members of the U.S. team from Penn Manor High School are:  Brendan Stoeckl, Jordan Franssen, Nate Bernhardt and Tyler Funk. Their team advisor is Brian Osmolinski. 

Members of the UK team from Horsforth Secondary School are: Chris Fogden, Jon Lloyd and Nik Shackleton. Their team advisor is Mike Shovlin.

Members of the French team from College Galilee are: Marine Demellier and Nina Bergande. Their team advisor is Diane Delarocque.

More information about TARC, UKAYRoC and the French Rocketry Challenge is available at www.rocketcontest.org, www.ukay-roc.org.uk and http://www.planete-sciences.org/espace/-Rocketry-Challenge-. High-resolution images and broadcast-quality video are also available upon request.

Known as the INSTINCT-Technology Demonstrator 2 (TD2), this is a dynamic, innovative project that is designed to discover, trial and showcase emergent security technologies, solutions and ideas. These will be validated through trials and analysis conducted in a combination of live physical environments, including UK Airports and synthetic environ­ments. Support to develop technologies, solutions or ideas into real products that can be quickly implemented within the aviation security environment is a key deliverable for the INSTINCT-TD2 project, as is the awareness of these ‘products’ and their capabilities by the airport, airline and security authorities and companies.

Participation in the project is sought from any person, company or academic institution (‘demonstrators’), regardless of size or location, that has a technology, solution or idea that could improve aviation security at any stage in the air travel process, from the point of planning and booking a trip, through to boarding an aircraft.  Ideally this would improve, or at least not affect, passenger experience and/or airport revenues.
Specific benefits to successful demonstrators include:

• the opportunity to share in a cash prize from a prize fund of £50,000, provided by Thales;
• the opportunity to test their technology, solution or idea in a real environment that they wouldn’t normally be able to access;
• gaining invaluable knowledge of the aviation security environment and the application of their technology within this market;
• access to aviation and industry experts to help them to trial, demonstrate and market their technology in the best possible way;
• access to a wide range of potential customers and end users;
• coaching and support in the development of their technology, solution or idea into a marketable product and business planning;
• financial support to offset reasonable costs associated with taking part in the trials, subject to status;
• protection of intellectual property; and
• full support and guidance throughout the entire project.

Get in touch

Further information can be found at  www.intellectuk.org/INSTINCT-TD2 , by emailing INSTINCT-TD2@uk.thalesgroup.com This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or by registering (via the TD2 website) for the industry day to be held in Central London on 19 August.  The closing date for submissions is 21 August 2010.

A|D|S, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation will be signing a cooperative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Australian Industry & Defence Network Inc (AIDN) at the Farnborough International Airshow, 10.00 Thursday 22 July 2010.

With the increasing globalisation of the defence industry, this agreement will foster increased cooperation between the members of the two organisations as well as achieve economies of effort on joint initiatives. The objective of the MoU signed today is simply to boost trade and supply chain efficiently in these strategic sectors.

Ian Godden, Chairman of A|D|S, said:

“A|D|S is delighted to deepen an already excellent relationship with our counterparts in Australia. This has already been demonstrated by sharing the UK’s expertise in aerospace and defence supply chain management through the recent introduction of Supply Chains for the 21^st Century (SC21) into the Australian defence industry.

“This agreement will deliver significant benefits for our respective members by opening doors to extended overseas trade in markets of crucial importance to both sides.”

Sue Smith, Executive Officer, Australian Industry & Defence Network Inc, said:

“AIDN is pleased to be formalising our relationship with the A|D|S and is excited to be taking the relationship between the UK and Australian defence and aerospace industries to a new level.”

Sally Capp, Agent-General, Europe, for the Government of Victoria, Australia, said:

“International collaboration is the key to encouraging growth and best practice within the defence and security sectors in Australia and the UK. The State Government of Victoria is buoyed by the Memorandum of Understanding signed between A|D|S and the Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN) and foresees this as the start of a mutually beneficial partnership. AIDN-Victoria is the jewel in the crown of AIDN with over 235 members and growing stronger by the day.

“Today we have 13 Victorian SMEs promoting their capabilities at the Farnborough Airshow. Business relationships forged at Farnborough can be further developed at Avalon 2011, the Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition, taking place 1st-6th March in Geelong, Victoria.”

ENDS

Issued: Thursday 22 July 2010 for immediate release
Our reference: A|D|S PR 2010 056

INDUSTRY WELCOMES GOVERNMENT DEFENCE EXPORT FIGURES

Over £7 billion in defence sales by UK in 2009 confirmed by UKTI DSO

A|D|S, the UK’s AeroSpace, Defence and Security trade organisation today (Thursday) welcomed the news from the Government’s UK Trade and Investment Defence and Security Organisation (UKTI DSO) that the UK has retained its position as number two in the world in defence exports in 2009. The UK ranks number one in Europe and is behind only the US globally.

UKTI DSO revealed that the UK achieved over £7 billion of new defence exports orders in 2009, close to the long-term target for the UK of 20 per cent of the global export market.

Ian Godden, Chairman of A|D|S, said:

“As the Government seeks to rebalance the economy towards industries that represent high-technology manufacturing and services with strong export potential the defence sector is delivering on these priorities.  It also has further room for strong growth in exports as the country recovers from recession.

“The defence industry is proud to support our armed forces directly and to work closely with our partners overseas.  It also employs over 300,000 people across the whole of the UK and contributes over £35 billion to the economy each year.  As we are demonstrating this week at the Farnborough International Airshow our industry offers solutions to the country’s needs.  We look forward to working in partnership with the Government to deliver further benefits in the future to meet the nation’s requirements in terms of jobs and increased wealth.”

ENDS

For more information please contact:
* Matthew Knowles, Head of Media Relations, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4538
  Mobile: +44 (0) 7595 863 749
* Samuel Jones, Communications Manager, A|D|S
  Tel: +44 (0) 20 7091 4521
  Mobile: +44 (0) 7827 309 732

A|D|S is also on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ADSgroupUK.

Notes to Editors:

1. For more information from UKTI DSO please go to http://www.ukti.gov.uk/defencesecurity.html.
2. A|D|S is the trade organisation advancing UK AeroSpace, Defence and Security industries with Farnborough International Limited as a wholly-owned subsidiary.  A|D|S also encompasses the British Aviation Group (BAG).  It is formed from the merger of the Association of Police and Public Security Suppliers (APPSS), the Defence Manufacturers Association (DMA) and the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC).  For more information see www.adsgroup.org.uk.

Mr Prisk said:

“I’m delighted to confirm the appointment of Allan Cook. The Advisory Board provides a valuable role in bringing business into the heart of UKTI’s work to help UK companies make the most of global trade and investment opportunities. Allan brings with him a wealth of experience which, as we strive to rebalance the economy and increase the UK’s position as a high-tech exporter, will be well-used by UKTI.”

Allan Cook, Chairman of Atkins, said: 

“It is a privilege and an honour to be taking on the role of chairman of UKTI’s Advanced Engineering Sector Advisory Board in challenging times. Anyone who knows me will recognise that I relish this and I am looking forward to playing my part.

“How this sector positions itself globally over the next few years will have a major bearing on how well the UK economy recovers from the travails of recent times.

“The UK must become increasingly adept at using its resource of expert engineers on the world stage if it is to really achieve strong economic recovery. There can be no doubt that our universities, leading consultants, manufacturers and contractors have world class skills but we will not succeed with that alone.

“What is required is for us to show off our skills, seek new markets and really push ourselves forward.”

Welcoming the appointment, Ian Godden, Chairman of the aerospace trade association, A|D|S, said:

“We are delighted to hear of Allan’s appointment to the UKTI Advanced Engineering Sector Advisory Board. The Government have found an excellent person for this important role. Allan is passionate about British engineering, has the business background to combine with that passion, and is achievement-orientated: thereby providing a powerful source of leadership and advice to UKTI and to Ministers.”

Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of the automotive trade association, the SMMT, said:

“The advanced engineering sector is sure to benefit from Allan’s significant knowledge, experience and industry contacts. The UK has globally competitive manufacturing expertise and his influence will help to develop and market this in a strategic and influential way. This appointment strengthens industry’s arm as we work to re-balance the economy through exporting goods and services to markets around the world.”

Welcoming the appointment, Graham Dewhurst, Director General of the MTA, the Manufacturing Technologies Association, said:

“In an increasingly globalised and interconnected world, it's vital that we continue to make the case for Britain's outstanding advanced engineering sector, both at home and abroad. With that in mind we welcome Allan Cook's appointment as a strong voice for British engineering and manufacturing.”

Media contact

For more information, please contact James Clements in UKTI Press Office on 020 7215 2491 or james.clements@ukti.gsi.gov.uk.

Notes to editors

1. UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is the government department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy. We also help overseas companies bring their high quality investment to the UK’s economy – acknowledged as Europe’s best place from which to succeed in global business. UKTI offers expertise and contacts through its extensive network of specialists in the UK, and in British embassies and other diplomatic offices around the world. We provide companies with the tools they require to be competitive on the world stage.

For more information on UKTI, visit www.ukti.gov.uk or telephone +44 (0)20 7215 8000. For latest press releases, visit the online newsroom at www.ukti.gov.uk/media. You can also keep in touch with developments at UKTI through www.blog.ukti.gov.uk, www.twitter.com/ukti and www.flickr.com/photos/tags/ukti.

2. Allan Cook was appointed a non-executive director at Atkins in September 2009, taking up the post of chairman on 1 February 2010. He is a chartered engineer with more than 30 years’ international experience in the automotive, aerospace and defence industries. He was chief executive of Cobham PLC until the end of December 2009. Prior to this he held senior roles at GEC-Marconi, BAE Systems and Hughes Aircraft. He is a non-executive director of Marshall of Cambridge (Holdings) Limited and a member of the operating executive board of J.F. Lehman & Company. He is also chairman of UK Trade & Investment’s Advanced Engineering Sector Advisory Board, chairman of the Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies (SEMTA), past president of the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), past president of the Society of British Aerospace and Defence Companies (SBAC), director of the Industry Forum, director of the Apprentice Ambassador Network and a committee member of the UK Ministerial Advisory Group for Manufacturing. He was awarded a CBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list in 2008 and is a fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

3. UKTI has established a series of sector advisory groups formed of senior businessmen to advise it on strategic issues pertaining to their sector. These groups of senior business figures form an important link to their industries, providing business validation and challenge as well as credibility to UKTI’s activities. The Advanced Engineering Sector Advisory Board (AdESAB) was formed in 2007 bringing together the hitherto separate aerospace, automotive and engineering sectors. AdESAB is composed of business people from those sectors, who give strategic advice to UKTI on international trade and investment in the sector.

Sridhar Navalpakam from Tata Consultancy Services, based in Troy, Michigan in the USA was presented with his prize at the Breitling champagne bar at the Farnborough International Airshow by Ian Godden, Chairman of A|D|S, the UK’s aerospace, defence and security trade organisation and also Chairman of its subsidiary company Farnborough International Limited, who organise the Airshow.  The draw was held on Wednesday 21 July.

A further draw to raise more funds for the charity will take place on each of the public days at the Airshow (Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 July) where over 150,000 people are expected to attend the show.

Ian Godden, Chairman of A|D|S, the UK’s aerospace, defence and security trade organisation and its subsidiary company Farnborough International Limited said:

"A|D|S and its subsidiary, Farnborough International Limited, are delighted to welcome SSAFA to the Airshow to raise funds for such a worthy cause.  Our industry is committed fully to providing the best possible equipment for our armed forces and supporting them and their families once their service is finished.  Congratulations go to Mr Navalpakam on his win. We thank Breitling for their support of SSAFA and the Airshow.”

For more information on A|D|S please go to www.adsgroup.org.uk, on Farnborough go to www.farnborough.com and SSAFA go to www.ssafa.org.uk.

ENDS

The U.S.-UK and U.S.-Australia Defense Trade Cooperation Treaties were negotiated and signed in 2007.  As made clear by U.K. Defence Secretary Liam Fox, our closest allies are running out of patience on this issue.

Ratification of these treaties goes hand-in-hand with the Obama administration’s plan to modernize export controls.  Our industry, with about 820,000 employees and 30,000 suppliers from all 50 states strongly supports efforts to ease restrictions on American companies as we work to equip our closest friends and allies with the technology that allows their troops to stand with ours to defend our mutual interests.

Ratifying these treaties is important for both national security and economic stability in the United States.  We strongly urge the Senate to ratify the U.S.-UK and U.S.-Australia Defense Trade Cooperation Treaties as soon as possible.

• Stephen Phipson, Smiths Detection (and A|D|S Vice President Security)
• Sir Edward Crew, A|D|S Security Consultant
• Rt Hon Baroness Neville-Jones, Minister of State for Security and Counter-Terrorism
• Richard Paniguian, UKTI DSO
• John Howe, RISC
• Dr Alastair MacWillson, Accenture
• Dr Andrew Rogoyski

Speeches and presentations below.

Please visit the Home Office website for Rt Hon Baroness Neville-Jones' speech.