Saudi-made parts for T-165 Hawk jet trainers

LONDON, March 30 (UPI) -- Jet trainers being acquired by the Royal Saudi Air Force will feature avionics components produced by a Saudi Arabian company.

BAE Systems said the components being produced by by Advanced Electronics Company for the Hawk T-165 are the first Saudi-produced parts ever fitted onto a BAE Systems aircraft being produced in Britain.

"These successful activities are an important step forward in supporting Industrialization and the local economy here in the kingdom," said Andy Carr, chief executive officer and managing director, BAE Systems Saudi Arabia. "The manufacturing experience at AEC will also support a sovereign, sustainable in- service support capability locally, reducing logistical time-scales for Hawk operations in Saudi Arabia."

The components were not specifically identified. BAE Systems, however, said they are integral to the six multi-functional displays in the aircraft's cockpit.

AEC made the components in cooperation with the original equipment manufacturer, General Electric.

"As a locally based company we are delighted to be playing an important role in the production of Hawk aircraft destined for the Royal Saudi Air Force," said AEC Chief Executive Officer Dr Ghassan Shibl. "Having last year become the first Typhoon repair company outside Europe, we're delighted to build upon our close relationship with BAE Systems and make new contributions to Saudi Arabia's Aerospace Industry."

BAE Systems said delivery of the Hawk trainers to the RSAF will begin next year.