BAE SYSTEMS Hands Off First M88A2 HERCULES to Australian Army.

YORK, Pa. -- BAE Systems recently conducted a hand off of the first M88A2 HERCULES to the Australian Army during a ceremony held at the company's York, Pa. facility.

The HERCULES presented represents the first of seven to be delivered under a contract awarded in 2004 and 2005 by the U.S. Army's Tank-automotive and Armaments Command to provide M88A2 HERCULES vehicles for Australia.

"We take great pleasure and pride to accept this very important and high-profile vehicle," said Brigadier Grant Cavenagh, Director General, Land Manoeuvre Systems for the Australian Army. "The combination of the M1A1 and the M88 will provide superior support to the Australian Defense Force."

"BAE Systems is proud to support the Australian Army with the world's best recovery vehicle, which will enable the safe recovery of Australia's 70-ton M1A1 AIM tanks," said Ron McCleaf, M88A2 program manager for BAE Systems.

HERCULES supports recovery efforts for recovering today's 70-ton combat vehicles and answers the need for cost-effective, self-supporting heavy recovery performance. Key upgrades from the M88A1 include improved power-assisted braking, improved steering, improved electrical system and increased engine horsepower. HERCULES delivers 25 percent more towing muscle, 40 percent more hoisting strength and 55 percent more winching power in meeting any mission requirement.

About BAE Systems

BAE Systems is the premier trans-Atlantic defense and aerospace company, delivering a full range of products and services for air, land, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. BAE Systems, with more than 100,000 employees worldwide, had 2005 sales that exceeded $28 billion.