BAE SYSTEMS JP129 Solution Strengthened by Recent US Army Decisions
24 Aug 2005
BAE Systems Australias JP129 Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) solution has been given a boost thanks to recent contract awards made by the US Army.
AAI Corporation, a lead partner on BAE Systems JP129 team has been awarded a contract to provide an additional 12 Shadow 200 systems, expanding the US Armys Tactical UAV capability. They have also been selected, as part of a team with General Atomics, to develop and demonstrate the US Armys new Extended Range Multi Purpose (ERMP) UAV system, which consists of the Predator UAV, designated the Warrior and the Shadow 200 Ground Control Station. These contracts mean the BAE Systems Australia/AAI JP129 solution, if selected, will provide the Australian Defence Force with enhanced interoperability with US Forces and guaranteed long term development and capability enhancements.
The Shadow 200 TUAVs are a mainstay of tactical unmanned system surveillance and reconnaissance operations in support of US and allied forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and other global operations. The BAE Systems solution offered to the ADF for JP129, is centred on the Shadow 200 TUAV System and benefits from extensive operational experience gained by the US Army and AAI.
Since being deployed to Iraq at the outset of military operation in early 2003, Shadow 200 TUAV systems have flown more than 10,000 sorties and 40,000 flight hours in support of U.S. and allied operations in OIF. There is no other operational TUAV System globally that can match this real-world experience, said Brad Yelland, BAE Systems Integrated Autonomous Systems Capability Manager.
This order for additional Shadow 200 systems is another major endorsement of the Shadow 200 air vehicles and ground control stations. It reinforces the US Armys decision to make it their system of choice for Brigade level UAV capability. In selecting the BAE Systems solution for JP129 the ADF will benefit from in excess of US$750M of investments made by the U.S. Army in the Shadow 200 TUAV system over the past 10 years, said Brad.
This recent contract for further system brings the total number of Shadow 200 TUAV systems procured by the U.S. Army, since December 1999, to 56 including 224 air vehicles. 31 systems have thus far been delivered, with system deliveries now extending through November 2006. U.S Army requirements are forecast to be in excess of 100 systems over the foreseeable future.
The US Armys new ERMP UAV system is comprised of AAI Corporations designed and developed One System Ground Control Station, which is an enhanced version of that used for the Shadow 200 system. The ERMP contract award makes the One System Ground Control Station the US Armys single ground system for all future UAV Systems, reinforcing the need for commonality of ground control systems to ensure interoperability between assets said Brad.
The ERMP UAV will replace the aging Hunter, currently serving in Iraq as the Army's division- and corps-level UAV.
The BAE Systems solution for JP129 is low risk, proven and in full rate production, giving the ADF certainty of delivery. The Shadow 200, will allow the ADF to leverage off significant US investment in the Shadow 200 TUAV program as well as the ongoing ground element developments of the US Armys One System Ground Control Station. As a combat proven system, it will provide full interoperability with US Forces, and benefits from established operational procedures, support systems and an established global supply chain.
BAE Systems Australia, in conjunction with its industry partners, will integrate other proven technologies and products to the Shadow 200 system, to address unique Australian requirements.
About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space. The Company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, combat vehicles, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years and is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems. BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The Company employs over 90,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately 14.8 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.
For further information, please contact:
Shelley Mearns, BAE Systems Australia
Tel: +61 (0) 8 8480 7211 Mob: +61 (0) 402 890 760
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