France orders new gear for special-ops parachutists

The French military has contracted Zodiac Aerosafety Systems to supply air drop systems for special mission skydivers.

The new system will consist of a parachute, a navigation system, a self-guided package, communications system, skydiver protection equipment -- helmet, low temperature clothing -- and all accessories required by the parachutist.

The French defense procurement agency, Directorate General of Armaments, said the system will allow a total mass of about 441 pounds to be dropped from an altitude of about 30,000 feet, where the G9 parachute now in service can take only handle 352 pounds at 24,000 feet.

Additional details of the contract, including its value and expected delivery of the systems, were not disclosed.

Zodiac Aerosafety Systems is headquartered in France.

Northrop Grumman gets KC-10 engine and support orders
Washington (UPI) Oct 5, 2016 - Northrop Grumman Technical Services has been awarded two delivery orders totaling $96 million for work on the U.S. Air Force's KC-10 Extender program.

One $54 million delivery order to a previously awarded contract covers 12 KC-10 engine overhauls.

Work will be performed in Canada and is expected to be completed by September 2018.

The second $42 million delivery order to a previously awarded contract involves KC-10 logistic support and spares.

Work will be performed at Air Force bases worldwide.

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center is the contracting entity for both orders.

The Extender is the service's advanced tanker and cargo aircraft.