TUCSON, Ariz., Feb. 6, 2008 /PRNewswire/ -- The government of France
awarded Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) a direct commercial sales contract
Jan. 18 worth $22 million for the combat-proven Enhanced Paveway(TM) II
(EP2) dual- mode GPS/laser-guided precision munition and weapons
integration for the French Air Force's Mirage 2000D fighter aircraft.
Raytheon's Paveway II (P2) laser-guided smart bombs already equip the
Mirage 2000D, which supports U.S. and other NATO forces in Afghanistan. EP2
first achieved initial operational capability on the French Navy's Super
Etendard fighter aircraft in 2007, which also benefited the French Air
Force.
The contract calls for Raytheon to provide the French Air Force with
upgrade kits to convert 500-pound P2 laser-guided bombs into the more
capable dual-mode GBU-49 and includes additional options for more EP2
systems. The GBU-49 is a precision weapon that has been extensively
employed by U.S. and allied forces in both Afghanistan and Iraq. EP2 is
already in operational use on several other U.S. and NATO military aircraft
including the French Navy's Super Etendard.
"EP2 gives our French operators a true all-weather precision-attack
capability," said Commander Yann de Champsavin, French Navy program
officer. "EP2 matches real affordability with unrivalled standoff range,
accuracy and reliability. That is why EP2 is a clear weapon of choice for
our Air Forces."
"France is a highly valued member of a rapidly growing number of global
partners in the Enhanced Paveway program," said Ricky Freibert, director of
Raytheon's Paveway program. "Raytheon's international investments continue
to drive down cost for future and existing customers while greatly
enhancing interoperability between militaries."
Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology
leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government
markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning more
than 85 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission
systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing;
effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as
well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in
Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.
Note to Editors:
Enhanced Paveway weapon systems are currently providing operational
flexibility and precision against a broad range of requirements and target
sets in the ongoing global war on terror.
Enhanced Paveway II is an affordable all-weather dual mode GPS/laser-
guided precision munition that has successfully been used in combat by the
U.K.'s Royal Air Force during Operation Southern Watch and Operation
Enduring Freedom.
Contact:
Mike Nachshen
520.794.4088
Michael_nachshen@raytheon.com
SOURCE Raytheon Company
 back to top
Related links:
http://www.raytheon.com
CONTACT:
Mike Nachshen of Raytheon Company,
+1-520-794-4088, Michael_nachshen@raytheon.com
|
