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BAE SYSTEMS launches Australian satelitte communications bid

02 Apr 2001

Ref: 054/2001

BAE Systems - teamed with Auspace and Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) - has bid for the Australian Defence Force's Advanced Satellite and Terrestrial Infrastructure System (ASTIS).

BAE Systems currently supplies the ADF with more than 90% of its tactical and trunk communications equipment. With extensive global capability and the specialist strengths of its teaming partners Auspace and SKM, BAE Systems is able to provide an enhanced solution to the ADF's ASTIS programme.

"BAE Systems provides the ADF with access to an extensive local and global capability which is essential for satellite systems design, manufacture and support," said Murray Bruce, Business Development Manager-C4ISTAR, BAE Systems.

BAE Systems is seeking to provide a seamless connectivity in ASTIS between the fixed and mobile elements of the Defence Information Environment, ensuring the same quality of service delivered to the fixed network is also delivered to the deployed network.

"The company seeks to address unique military requirements through the use of emerging commercial standards and the integration of readily available commercial-off-the-shelf equipment from a variety of familiar vendors," said Mr Bruce. "Following the successful deployment of the Parakeet tactical satellite & trunk communications system in East Timor, BAE Systems is confident we can utilise the same project management systems integration and engineering capability to meet and exceed the requirements of ASTIS."

Providing satellite communications engineering support, Auspace brings a multi-disciplinary team in the design, research & development and integration of space and terrestrial hardware and systems. Sinclair Knight Merz is providing expert naval architecture and marine engineering support for the integration of the ASTIS ship terminals into frigates, ANZAC Class Ships, amphibious ships and coastal minehunters.

BAE Systems globally has the capability to provide total solutions for all remaining phases of ASTIS, also known as JP 2008 Phase 3E, and the technology to meet the ADF's total satellite communications requirements. In Australia, the company employs more than 200 people in the design, construction & support of satellite communications.