Defense

The U.S. Navy has given Serco Inc. a new production and engineering services contract for support of its Automated Digital Network Systems.

Under the contract, Serco will perform hardware integration and testing to deliver the Navy's newest ADNS configuration in support of Shore, Ship and Submarine installations.

The U.S. Air Force Space Command has modified a number of contracts with BAE Systems for continued support of large radar and telescope systems.

The systems are used for missile warning and space surveillance, detecting, identifying and tracking objects in space.

BAE Systems provides a variety of services in support of the systems, including operations and maintenance services.

"This work is important for national security, communications and space research," said Gordon Eldridge, vice president and general manager of Aerospace Solutions at BAE Systems.

Aviation manufacturer Cobham has received a $30 million contract from Brazil's Embraer Defense and Security to develop and supply the auxiliary fuselage fuel tank for the KC-390 tanker aircraft.

Brazil is banking on seizing markets that use the C-130 Hercules and are looking to replace the workhorse aircraft with an economical tactical transport and refueling plane.

The KC-390 is touted as a cheaper alternative to not only the Hercules but other rivals from Europe, Russia and Asian manufacturers.

At about $50 million the KC-390 competes against C-130J at about $62 million.

BAE Systems reports that the U.S. Army ordered advanced lightweight laser target locator systems for use by dismounted soldiers.

The order for the company's Target Reconnaissance Infrared Geolocating Rangefinder systems is worth $23.5 million and is the second since low-rate initial production began in 2009 under an Army contract worth more than $70 million.

More than 300 Bradley Fighting Vehicles are to be upgraded and provided to U.S. Army National Guard units by BAE Systems.

The $306 million award is a contract modification from the Army's TACOM Life Cycle Management Command. The earlier award -- worth $340 million -- was for buying materials for the upgrade.

"Our Bradley Fighting Vehicle has served alongside Army soldiers, helping them to accomplish their missions for more than two decades," said Joe McCarthy, vice president and general manager of Combat Vehicles at BAE Systems.