Ben-Gurion University of the Negev inaugurated the Laboratory for
Nanoscale Systems as part of its "Nano in the Negev" program. The
facility - the first of its kind in Israel - will allow scientists to
form sophisticated chips with structures dedicated to the interface
of extremely small elements like single atoms and molecules. This
newly-created "smart surface" will be able to help miniaturize matter
wave quantum technology (MWQT) which uses single ultra cold atoms and
ions to form devices such as ultra-precision clocks, navigation
systems, sensors for underground mineral deposits, communications
systems (quantum cryptography), and even ultra-fast computers
(quantum computing). Dr. Ron Folman, head of BGU's Atom Chip
Laboratory, will also head the new facility.
The BGU team, part of the Ilse Katz Center for Meso- and Nanoscale
Science and Technology, has recently been chosen by several labs in
the US and Europe to join a mutual R&D effort in matter wave quantum
technology. In addition, the "smart surface" concept will be used to
develop other devices such as biosensor chips and chip interfaces to
organic material.
RAFAEL wins $25m. Indian Missile Tender Use graphic of Derby missile
RAFAEL Armament Development Authority Ltd. has won a tender to supply
missiles to the Indian Navy. Other bidders in the tender included
Israeli company Elbit Systems (NASDAQ: ESLT; TASE: ESLT), BAE
Aerospace of the UK, Denel (PLY) Ltd. of South Africa, Federal State
Unitary Enterprise Russian Defense Export (FGUP Rosoboroneksport),
and European missile manufacturer MBDA.
Jane's "Defense News" reported that the deal was worth $25 million
for 20 Derby missiles that can be fired beyond visual range (BVR),
and six practice missiles. The missiles are designated for the Indian
Navy's Sea Harrier vertical takeoff planes, which are stationed on
Viraat aircraft carriers.
India has conducted a worldwide search for BVR missiles for its
battle fleet since 2000. The contract for arming its Sea Harrier jets
was published in 2003.
Under the draft agreement, RAFAEL will station specialists in India
to train Indian Navy sailors in the maintenance and operation of the
missiles. Indian defense ministry officials said that RAFAEL would
also supply racks and trailers for transferring and installing the
missiles.
The Derby missiles, according to Jane's, have a maximum range of 20
kilometers, a flying speed of Mach 1.2, and can lock in on the target
even before being launched, or shortly after launch.