Highlights of 2021 plus US Army engine upgrade

In the final bumper edition of The Weekly Defence Podcast in 2021, our subject matter experts look back over an eventful year for air, land, sea and training procurement programmes (including a return to the trade show scene); we look at the main developments in the Asia-Pacific region; and Air Editor Tim Martin speaks with Honeywell to discuss the T55-714C engine upgrade for US Army helicopters.

Newsround [01:45]

In his overview, Air Editor Tim Martin notes strong 2021 performances from Dassault and Lockheed Martin in winning fighter procurement contests.

Looking ahead, Tim flags up a looming decision in Canada on future fighter procurement and notes that 2022 will be a significant year for the US Army FVL programme.

Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira looks back at her highlights from the AUSA annual conference and exhibition in October 2021, particularly the OMFV programme for the US Army. She also discusses problems affecting British Army vehicle procurement.

Senior Naval Reporter Harry Lye reviews the highlights (and lowlights) of the Carrier Strike Group 21 deployment by the UK RN, as well as strong procurement activity in Greece.

Simulation & Training Editor Trevor Nash describes getting back on the show scene in 2021. It was a busy year for industry mergers and acquisitions, and Trevor also describes how  NATO has grabbed the NFTE programme by the horns.
 

Asia-Pacific review [48:32]

News Editor Ben Vogel discusses major news from 2021 with Asia-Pacific Editor Gordon Arthur. Chinese sabre-rattling towards its neighbours continued and Beijing appears intent on boosting its ICBM and hypersonic missile stocks, while the AUKUS pact in September ruffled feathers in France.

Interview – Honeywell Aerospace [1:08:59]

Tim Martin talks with TJ Pope, senior director for military turboshaft engines at Honeywell Aerospace, about the latest developments with the T55-714C upgrade for US Army helicopters.

This episode was produced by Ben Vogel with music and sound mixing by Fred Prest.