BAE SYSTEMS Awarded Echidna Initial Design Contract.

ADELAIDE, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 15, 2001

Strengthening its reputation as Australia's leading Electronic Warfare design house, BAE SYSTEMS, has today been awarded an Initial Design Activity (IDA) contract for the Department of Defence's Project Air 5416 - known as Project Echidna.

Under the funded study contract BAE SYSTEMS will perform a system requirements analysis, as well as architectural and detailed design to the sub system level for electronic warfare self protection of Australian Defence Force aircraft types including Blackhawk S-70A-9 helicopters, Chinook CH-47D helicopters and Hercules C130-J transport aircraft.

Speaking at a contract signature ceremony at Australian Defence Headquarters in Canberra today, Mr Jim McDowell, chief executive, BAE SYSTEMS Australia said the company's approach to the IDA would draw on the strengths of the global BAE SYSTEMS electronic warfare business.

"The Echidna program will lay the foundation stone for Australia to expand its indigenous EW capability," said Mr McDowell. "BAE SYSTEMS Australia is committed to playing a lead role in the development of this strategic capability."

Following successful implementation on these aircraft, the potential exists for additional aircraft to be modified with the Echidna solution.

Issued by Corporate Affairs, BAE SYSTEMS Australia.

NOTES to EDITORS:

BAE SYSTEMS is the truly global systems, defence and aerospace company. BAE SYSTEMS employs more than 100,000 people, in eight home markets around the world and has annual sales of some $18 billion.

The company offers a global capability in air, sea, land and space with a world-class prime contracting ability supported by a range of key skills. BAE SYSTEMS designs and manufactures civil and military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, space systems, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, guided weapon systems and a range of other defense products.

In Australia, the company employs 2,500 people, supports customers at more than 50 locations across the country, and has its center of operations in Adelaide. BAE SYSTEMS is a leader in engineering and systems integration, and a major supplier of support services, electronics and software.