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ITT Exelis completes first overhaul of mine-sweeping system for U.S. Navy

Dépèche transmise le 12 mars 2012 par Business Wire

ITT Exelis completes first overhaul of mine-sweeping system for U.S. Navy

PANAMA CITY, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ITT Exelis (NYSE: XLS) has completed its first overhaul of a mine-sweeping system for the U.S. Navy. In 2009, the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Panama City, Fla., awarded this sole-source indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract, which has a potential value of $49 million.

“As the original manufacturer, we have the knowledge and expertise to perform the overhaul quickly and effectively and return this valuable asset to the Navy’s fleet”

The refurbishment extends the life of this MK-105 Mod 4 Airborne Mine Countermeasure Influence Sweep unit for another 10 years. As a result of the system overhaul, the Navy will be able to respond quicker to current and future sea mine threats.

“As the original manufacturer, we have the knowledge and expertise to perform the overhaul quickly and effectively and return this valuable asset to the Navy’s fleet,” said Rich Sorelle, vice president and general manager of the Exelis Integrated Electronic Warfare Systems business area. “By leveraging the Exelis installed base and providing upgrades to existing capabilities, we can offer our customer an affordable option for enhancing performance of this critical technology.”

The MK-105 system, used in every U.S. Navy mine-clearance operation since its introduction, is towed by the MH-53E helicopter at rapid speeds through the water. The system creates an electromagnetic field that replicates the magnetic signature of ships and submarines and sets off influence mines before they reach targeted vessels passing through the water.

The Navy has 10 MK-105 systems in inventory and will send one system annually to Exelis for overhaul. The upgrades are being performed in Panama City, Fla., by the Electronic Systems division’s mine defense business, which designs and develops integrated mine-sweeping systems for the U.S. Navy and allied navies.

ITT Exelis Electronic Systems division provides innovative integrated solutions for the global defense, intelligence, information assurance and commercial aerospace sectors. As a leader in electronic warfare and communications, we leverage our experience and innovation to ensure the success of our customers’ critical missions. Our technology leadership extends into the areas of airborne electronic attack, networked and satellite communications, counter-improvised explosive devices, airspace management, surveillance systems, airborne and shipboard radar, acoustic sensors, advanced composite structures and electronic weapons interfaces.

About ITT Exelis

ITT Exelis is a diversified, top-tier global aerospace, defense and information solutions company with strong positions in enduring and emerging global markets. Exelis is a leader in networked communications, sensing and surveillance, electronic warfare, navigation, air traffic solutions and information systems with growing positions in cyber security, composite aerostructures, logistics and technical services. The company has a 50-year legacy of innovation and technology expertise, partnering with customers worldwide to deliver affordable, mission-critical products and services for managing global threats, conflicts and complexities. Headquartered in McLean, Va., the company employs about 20,500 people and generated 2011 sales of $5.8 billion. www.exelisinc.com