NASA, U.S. Army form research partnership

WASHINGTON, Sept. 19 (UPI) -- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the U.S. Army announced creation Wednesday of an aeronautics research partnership.

NASA Administrator Michael Griffin and Secretary of the Army Pete Geren said they have signed a memorandum of understanding designed to ensure an exchange of research information to reduce duplication and enhance long-term research planning for both organizations.

"Although NASA and the Army have different missions, we share a common goal of pursuing innovative research that will enable revolutionary capabilities in rotorcraft," said Lisa Porter, NASA associate administrator of aeronautics research.

The memorandum covers rotorcraft aeronautics and includes flight dynamics and control, vehicle structures, propulsion, avionics, aeromechanics, safety and airspace management.

"This is how the Army remains 'technology strong' -- by creating partnerships with the best and the brightest, such as at NASA, to enable us to stay light-years ahead of our enemies," said Thomas Killion, the Army's chief scientist. "It reflects the commitment of ourselves and our NASA partners to provide unrivaled capabilities to our soldiers and our country."