Thales reports new contracts

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LONDON, July 12 (UPI) -- The Thales Group has announced two new military contracts -- one from the British Ministry of Defense and the other from Australia.

The first award is a multimillion-dollar award from Britain to supply the first full-flight simulator for Airbus Military's A400M transport aircraft, which will be flown by the Royal Air Force.

Thales, an Airbus partner, is the main supplier of the A400M's cockpit display systems. It also provides components for the plane's avionics system, including navigation and flight controls.

"This order confirms Thales as a leading military training service provider for the UK MOD," said Marion Broughton, head of Thales UK's military aerospace business. The order secures more than 50 jobs for Thales UK and its supply chain, and a further 300 UK jobs expected to be secured once the long-term training service is in place."

In the second award, Thales Australia will provide Rockwell Collins Australia with optronics systems for use in an Australian military program to upgrade fire-support capabilities.

To be provided are Sophie MF long-range, multi-function binoculars/ thermal imagers and TYR laser target designators.

Thales said its optronics sensors will be integrated into Rockwell Collins' Firestorm joint fires targeting system for the military.

"We have worked very closely with Rockwell Collins Australia to provide an advanced solution that will help the Australian Defense Force enhance its offensive support systems to provide greater tactical flexibility and precision targeting capability," said Thales Australia Chief Executive Officer Chris Jenkins. "The Sophie family of thermal imagers is used around the world, and we have recently upgraded our optronics facilities in Australia to offer an extensive and responsive local support capability for both thermal and laser equipment."

The value of the contract from Rockwell Collins was not disclosed.