ATLANTA, July 16, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- EMS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ELMG) announced today that its Defense & Space Systems (D&SS) Division, a leader in agile-beam, line-of-sight tactical communication solutions, has received its largest single contract award from Lockheed Martin for antennas for the F-22 Raptor aircraft.
The multi-year buy, covering Lots 7 through 9, is valued at $12 million. Under the contract, EMS will supply 60 flight sets of its Intraflight Data Link (IFDL) antenna system. The IFDL system attributes include low size, weight and power, along with no moving parts. These features contribute to the F-22's covertness without sacrificing performance and coverage. IFDL's allow the F-22 to communicate tactical data with other F-22's during a mission, giving pilots the ability to share real-time information about a battle environment. This data network approach makes the F-22 more combat-ready, as it increases pilots' situational awareness and enables sophisticated, coordinated tactics.
The multi-year buy allows EMS to plan for a more continuous and long-term manufacturing flow, which will offer improvements in yields and efficiencies.
David Smith, vice president and general manager for EMS D&SS, says, "EMS is proud that our IFDL antennas are on board all 90 F-22 aircraft currently flying. Our collaboration with Lockheed Martin dates back to the early 90s when Lockheed began initial development of the F-22. The current multi-year commitment by Lockheed and their customer, the United States Air Force, underscores our quality and efficiency as a supplier. We look forward to building on that trust in delivering technology pivotal to the communications infrastructure of the Air Force's premier air-to-air fighter."
EMS expects its hardware deliveries to run through May 2010.
About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products, and services. The corporation reported 2006 sales of $39.6 billion.
About EMS Technologies, Inc.
EMS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ELMG) is a wireless and satellite communication solutions leader, serving aeronautical, defense, maritime, commercial space and supply chain markets. Through its LXE, EMS SATCOM, and Defense & Space Systems divisions, EMS keeps people, systems and data connected, wherever they are -- on the ground, in the warehouse, in the air, or in space. The Company is headquartered in Atlanta, employs approximately 1,000 people worldwide and operates major manufacturing facilities in Atlanta and Ottawa, Canada.
EMS Defense & Space Systems (D&SS) Division enables many of today's most advanced military and commercial space applications. EMS microwave systems serve the battlespace in communications, surveillance, precision strike and electronic warfare. Its low-observable, compact, and high-performance RF systems work across all warfighter platforms -- from space, air, ground and sea, to the soldier traveling on foot. D&SS also provides antenna capabilities for next-generation commercial satellites for entertainment and Internet connectivity. D&SS's customers include the world's best defense and space companies. For more information, visit EMS on the World Wide Web at www.ems-t.com.