BAE contracts StockerYale for lasers

SALEM, N.H., Nov. 10 (UPI) -- BAE Systems has contracted New Hampshire-based StockerYale for the company's laser technologies in support of a heat-seeking missile countermeasures project.

British company BAE awarded StockerYale a $2.1 million order for its reference laser technologies. Company officials say the laser order will go to support BAE's Advanced Threat Infrared Countermeasure, or ATIRCM, system.

The ATIRCM system is designed to protect aircraft against heat-seeking missiles. StockerYale has worked with BAE since 2002 to develop a laser to specifically meet the requirements of the infrared countermeasures ATIRCM system.

"We are very proud to have been chosen by BAE Systems as a key partner to their next-generation countermeasure program via this production order," Mark Blodgett, StockerYale chairman and chief executive officer, said in a statement.

"This contract award underscores our technological leadership in laser systems and highlights the reputation we have cultivated over the years in developing and delivering customized lasers to BAE."