BAE wins S. Korea AWACS computers contract

GREENLAWN, N.Y., Dec. 20 (UPI) -- BAE Systems has won a South Korean contract to supply mission computer systems for four AWACS aircraft.

BAE Systems said in a statement Monday that it had "received a $37 million contract to provide mission computer system suites for four Boeing 737 airborne early warning and control aircraft, supporting the Republic of Korea's EX program. The 737 EX program will provide the Republic of Korea with enhanced airborne surveillance, communications, and battle-management capabilities."

"Under contract from Boeing, EX program prime contractor, BAE Systems also will provide three software development labs to support development, integration, and training of the new mission computer system," the company said.

"The ever-increasing capability of airborne sensors in surveillance aircraft requires a scalable mission computer system with easy-to-read display data," said Lloyd Crosman, 737 EX program manager for BAE Systems in Greenlawn, N.Y.

"The mission computer suite consists of a computer processor with embedded map server and flight-deck tactical display functionality. The suite provides all central mission computing, mass data storage, and high-speed local-area network capability. It also features a communications control processor that provides interfaces to all aircraft sensor and communication subsystems," BAE Systems said.

"The mission computer architecture, derived from the telecommunications industry, offers lower weight and cost, freeing up resources for other capabilities. The advanced telecom computing architecture also gives the EX program significant increased processing capability and a path for future technology insertion. BAE Systems' development of telecom computer architecture for military use is among the first military applications of this technology," the company said.

"Delivery of the first software development lab is scheduled for July 2008. The first mission computer system suite is scheduled for April 2009," BAE Systems said.