BAE SYSTEMS Updates RAF Instrument Landing System Equipment

BAE SYSTEMS has completed the first phase of a programme to supply modern instrument landing system (ILS) equipment for the Royal Air Force's fleet of transport and associated aircraft.

Under an award made in late 2000, the Airborne Communications business of the Avionics Communication & Defence Infrastructure Division was contracted to redesign the AD260 ILS receivers fitted on support aircraft such as Hercules, Nimrod and Canberra.

This requirement was prompted by a change in International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations applicable to aircraft world-wide using civil airports. In addition, the upgraded equipment will offer higher levels of performance and reliability.

The design, development, manufacturing and integration of the new AD260 models was undertaken by the BAE SYSTEMS unit from its base at Basildon in Essex, United Kingdom. The programme of deliveries is expected to be completed by the end of 2001.

Background note
BAE SYSTEMS Avionics, Communications & Defence Infrastructure Division, supplies innovative UHF, VHF and HF airborne communications solutions. These incorporate leading-edge digital signal processing and software techniques to satisfy the most demanding military operational requirements, supported by sub-system integration and qualification expertise.

The Division's software programmable radio capability has supported the development of secure communications architectures, BAE SYSTEMS being the only UK source of SATURN. Its RF communications design and development expertise has been expanded by investment in the latest solutions for today's demands, such as datalinks (missile control and video, including Link 11 and Link 16) and communications restriction equipment.

About BAE SYSTEMS:
BAE SYSTEMS is the truly global systems, defence and aerospace company. BAE SYSTEMS employs some 100,000 people and has annual sales of around £12 billion. The company offers a 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 defence products.

For further information please contact:
Dennis Burton, BAE SYSTEMS Avionics
Tel: +44 (0) 1202 408512
Fax: +44 (0) 1202 404803
dennis.burton@baesystems.com