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MBDA launches production of the first SIMBAD-RC prototype

MBDA has frozen the general definition of its navalised, anti-air SIMBAD-RC turret. The production of the first prototype was launched at the end of summer 2010. This prototype will be available for the first ground-based dynamic tests before the end of this year. During the course of 2011, this prototype should in turn be mounted on the ship of an overseas partner in order to carry out a full programme of tests. These will enable the functionality and performance of this new version of the twin-MISTRAL missile launcher to be validated.

Paris, 25 October 2010

SIMBAD-RC is a weapon system comprising one or two twin-MISTRAL missile (very short range anti-air missile) turrets, remotely controlled from a small operating console sheltered from bad weather conditions. It is capable of ensuring the anti-air defence of all types of vessels, especially small patrol boats and large logistics ships, against a wide range of threats ranging from anti-ship missiles and combat aircraft to smaller surface threats such as fast inshore attack craft (FIAC).

Commenting on the rapid advances made by the SIMBAD-RC programme, Antoine Bouvier, CEO of MBDA, stated: “Navies throughout the world are witnessing a change in their operational scenarios and are having to take into consideration new asymmetric threats. With this new programme, MBDA is showing that it is fully in tune with a market that is changing more and more”.

Notes to editors

With industrial facilities in four European countries and within the USA, MBDA has an annual turnover of €2.6 billion and an order book of €12 billion. With more than 90 armed forces customers in the world, MBDA is a world leader in missiles and missile systems.

MBDA is the only group capable of designing and producing missiles and missile systems that correspond to the full range of current and future operational needs of the three armed forces (land, sea and air). In total, the group offers a range of 45 missile systems and countermeasures products already in operational service and more than 15 others currently in development.

MBDA is jointly held by BAE SYSTEMS (37,5%), EADS (37,5%) and FINMECCANICA (25%).

Press contacts:
Jean Dupont
Head of Media Relations MBDA
MBDA
Tel.: +33 1.71 54 11 73
Fax: +33 1.71 54 01 22

Marie-Astrid Steff
Media Relations MBDA France
MBDA France
Tel.: +33 1.71 54 27 27
Fax: +33 1.71 54 01 22