Homeland Security

Department Of Homeland Security's Hutchinson Visits BAE SYSTEMS Countermeasures Facility

16 Sep 2003

Asa Hutchinson, Under Secretary for Border & Transportation Security for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Rep. Charlie Bass (R-N.H.) today toured BAE Systems Nashua, N.H., facility, and received briefings on infrared missiles and the effective systems that BAE Systems has developed to counter the small man-portable surface-to-air missiles that have proliferated on battlefields and in terrorist hands.

Hutchinson viewed engineering models and simulations -- including a simulation of a BAE Systems laser-based jammer countering a missile threat against a commercial aircraft.

We're looking to private industry to provide solutions, whether on our borders or against missiles, said Hutchinson. Im delighted that BAE Systems is focusing on these threats.

Hutchinson added, We have to make sure we leave no stone unturned when it comes to policy and technology, and we look forward to a partnership with industry to solve these problems.

The Nashua-based Information and Electronic Warfare Systems unit of BAE Systems pioneered the use of advanced countermeasures against heat-seeking missiles more than three decades ago; its systems are widely deployed within the U.S. and allied militaries. Additionally, BAE Systems is the only manufacturer of a FAA-certified countermeasure for large and corporate aircraft.

By combining our proven military electronic protection technology with our expertise in commercial aviation equipment, we are in a position to effectively address these threats, said Don Donovan, vice president and general manager of IEWS, Electronic Warfare/Electronic Protection line of business.

These systems represent the type of technology that we can offer as a global company to support the growing requirements for homeland security, said Paul Clark, newly-appointed corporate vice president, Homeland Security for BAE Systems North America, Washington, D.C.

IEWS has delivered more than 14,000 countermeasures systems for U.S. and foreign military aircraft for more than 50 years.

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, 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. It 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 has more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately 12 billion through its wholly-owned and joint venture operations

BAE Systems North America is a high-technology U.S. company employing more than 25, 000 people who live and work in some 30 states, the District of Columbia, and the United Kingdom. The company is dedicated to solving its customers, needs with highly innovative and leading edge solutions across the defense electronics, systems, information technology, and services arenas.

BAE Systems Information & Electronic Warfare Systems employs 5,700 people at 10 major facilities in eight states. The business unit is a major producer of aircraft self-protection systems and tactical surveillance and intelligence systems for all branches of the armed forces. Other major business areas include microwave, mission and space electronics; infrared imaging; and automated mission planning systems.

BAE Systems, innovating for a safer world.