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BAE SYSTEMS To Supply Upper-Stage Remote Control For Atlas V Launch Vehicle

22 Feb 2001

Ref: 023

BAE Systems Controls has been selected to develop and produce Upper-Stage Remote Control Units for the Lockheed Martin Atlas V launch vehicle. Award of the URCU contract, valued at about $20 million through 2006, builds on an already significant Controls presence on Lockheed Martin’s newest launcher.

The URCU regulates power distribution for vehicle avionics and performs engine control functions for the rocket’s upper stage — the part of the launch vehicle responsible for deploying satellites and other payloads.

“With this win, Controls continues a very successful relationship with Lockheed Martin Space Systems,” said James Scanlon, Controls president. “It brings to four the number of unit types we have aboard the Atlas V and is testimony to the credibility our team has earned with Lockheed Martin.” The Atlas V family encompasses a group of vehicle configurations that will replace the current families of Atlas and Titan for launching a wide range of government and commercial payloads.

URCU development is expected to take two years. The current contract calls for production of four engineering development units and 14 production units starting in 2003.

In 1999, Controls received a contract for the Atlas V’s Booster Remote Control Unit, deliveries of which began in May 2000. The company also is building the vehicle’s Ordnance Remote Control Assembly, production deliveries of which will begin this year, and is developing its Redundant-Rate GyroUnit.

BAE Systems is the truly global systems, defense and aerospace company. BAE Systems employs more than 100,000 people, in nine home markets around the world and has annual sales of some $19 billion. The company offers an unrivalled global capability in air, sea, land and space with a world-class prime contracting ability supported by a range of key skills. BAE Systems designs and manufactures civil and military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, space systems, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, guided weapon systems and a range of other defense products.

BAE Systems North America employs 25,000 people in the design, development, integration, manufacture and support of a wide range of advanced aerospace products and intelligent electronic systems for government and commercial customers.

BAE Systems Controls, an operating unit of BAE Systems North America, is a major provider of electronic systems for global defense, civil, and commercial markets, producing flight, mission, and engine controls for the world aircraft and space market. It also is a leader in electronic controls for the locomotive industry and the emerging hybrid-electric vehicle market. Controls operates facilities in Johnson City, N.Y.; Santa Monica and Ontario, Calif.; and Fort Wayne, Ind.