Military

Alenia Aeronautica and EADS offer MPA 320 solution for German/Italian MPA-Replacement Program

Farnborough, 25 July 2002

Alenia Aeronautica/Finmeccanica and EADS Military Aircraft have jointly submitted an offer for a modern Maritime Patrol Aircraft for the German-Italian Maritime Patrol Aircraft Replacement (MPA-R) Program.

The offer is in response to a Request for Proposals issued in November 2001 by the German-Italian MPA-R Program Management Team at Koblenz to replace the ageing fleet of Breguet Atlantic ATL-1 operated by both countries. Alenia/EADS will establish a Joint Venture to be the prime contractor of the program.

The offer comprises 24 MPA aircraft derived from the proven Airbus 320, platforms, using a unique modification concept incorporating MPA-specific state-of-the-art functionality in combination with the outstanding features of the A320. Equipped with advanced sensors, tactical data management and communications systems for operators, stores and weapons compartments and a crew rest area, the MPA320 will provide the highest operational value and unsurpassed availability to the customer. The offer is supplemented by fixed-site and deployable mission support facilities to be fielded at the main operating bases in Germany and Italy and deployed operating bases worldwide. Training simulators and the full spectrum of logistic and customer support services are included in the offer.

Alenia and EADS represent a strong European joint team providing industrial leadership in the field of mission aircraft and further providing technological and economical benefit the German and Italian aerospace industries. With this joint proposal both companies continue to build on their long-lasting relationship that has been developed through a series of European military programs. The venture into the new era of maritime air operations is expected through contract award scheduled for mid 2003. EADS and Alenia believe that the MPA320 will meet both customers' expectations and detailed requirements. The partner companies are also convinced that they have made the right choice in making the MPA320 available for the worldwide market.

Your contact:

Military Aircraft
Wolfram Wolff
Phone: 89-607 25711
Fax: 89-607 22455
e-mail: wolfram.wolff@m.eads.net