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BAE Systems Advanced Defensive System Deployed on U-2

20 Oct 2005

NASHUA, New Hampshire -- BAE Systems' AN/ALQ-221 Advanced Defensive System (ADS) is now being deployed on U.S. Air Force U-2S reconnaissance aircraft and being used in military operations after achieving initial operating capability.

The AN/ALQ-221 is a state-of-the-art integrated Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) and Electronic Countermeasures system (ECM) that provides U-2 pilots with situational awareness and self-protection against current and future complex threats. The U-2 routinely flies at altitudes greater than 70,000 feet and provides U.S. and allied forces with surveillance and reconnaissance information.

"Due to the hard work of many agencies, all of the necessary milestones have been satisfied and we declare the AN/ALQ-221 electronic warfare system initial operating capability," said Maj. Gen. Kenneth DeCuir, Air Force director of air and space operations.

The ADS culminates more than 40 years of BAE Systems ECM technology maturity and advancement. The system is an integral part of the Block 20 U-2S aircraft modernization program and is integrated with the upgraded avionics processor and multifunction cockpit displays.

System production of the AN/ALQ-221, which was developed at BAE Systems Nashua, New Hampshire facility, began in 2004 and is nearly complete. The last systems are scheduled to be delivered by the end of the month.

"It is extremely rewarding for our team to be able to field such a capable system for protecting U-2 pilots," said John Normand, BAE Systems U-2 program manager.

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:

Keith Lewis, BAE Systems
Tel: +1 603-885-2818
keith.p.lewis@baesystems.com