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ITT Exelis ejection system successfully completes first airborne weapons separation test

Dépèche transmise le 19 mars 2012 par Business Wire

ITT Exelis ejection system successfully completes first airborne weapons separation test

CLIFTON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ITT Exelis (NYSE: XLS) announced that its weapon ejection release technology successfully launched an MK 54 torpedo from the P-8A Poseidon test aircraft, T-3, over a test range in the Atlantic Ocean. This first airborne weapons separation test confirms the technology’s safety and effectiveness.

“Our launching system is a critical part of the P-8A weapons suite”

This Exelis-developed innovative ejection technology uses clean, high-pressure compressed air to launch weapons. It replaces the traditional use of electro-explosive cartridges that had to be discarded and replaced after every single weapon release. The new design reduces routine maintenance, decreases the life-cycle costs and eases the impact on the environment, while still providing the precision and performance needed for military missions.

“Our launching system is a critical part of the P-8A weapons suite,” said Jim Barber, vice president and general manager of the Exelis Integrated Structures business. “U.S. Navy aviators and aircrew can feel confident that our system, which is based on many years of ejection release technology, will launch weapons safely and effectively during missions.”

The Exelis ejection unit precisely launches weapons from the bay of the P-8A, a long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft.

This airborne test follows a complete battery of ground-based testing, as well as full qualification testing during the system’s development. Future testing of the ejection units will include delivery accuracy and weapon integration.

Exelis was awarded the initial system design and development contract in August 2005 and has received follow-on contracts totaling more than $30 million to date. Work is being performed by the Exelis Electronic Systems division in Amityville, N.Y.

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