A survey by the leading research and polling institute GfS Bern predicts a close result in the May 18th referendum on the procurement of Gripen fighter aircraft. A negative result would see shrinking offset volumes in Switzerland for the next two years before new armament programs begin to fill the gap.
The Indian Air Force has issued an RfP seeking participation from domestic companies in a proposed $1.2bn programme to manufacture 106 Pilatus trainer aircraft. Several private sector Indian defence manufacturers have expressed an interest. The RfP was described by the defence industry as the first tender of its kind.
Abdul Rahman al-Zamil, who was previously a board member of the MoD’s Economic Offset Committee, has been appointed Chairman of the Council of Saudi Chambers. His first statement as chairman was to announce that a new economic offset program for civil contracts will be introduced after it has been tested for military contracts.
A new business organization, the Industrialisation Supplier Development Association, has been launched…...ISDA is tasked with improving prospects for higher levels of local content in South Africa’s multibillion-rand infrastructure programme.
President Vladimir Putin said the easing of central controls together with initiatives to encourage the use of loans; debt repayment initiatives; offsets; and industrial participation should be employed to support Russian military exports.