Rockwell Collins receives additional guidance and navigation systems production order for UK WATCHKEEPER program
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (June 10, 2008) - Rockwell Collins, through its recent acquisition of Athena Technologies, today announced a follow-on production order for
Athena 411 integrated inertial navigation, global positioning, and air data attitude heading reference systems (INS/GPS/ADAHRS).
UAV Tactical Systems Ltd. (U-TacS), the joint venture between Thales UK and Elbit Systems based at Leicester, U.K., awarded
the contract to Rockwell Collins.
 The Athena 411 systems will provide guidance and navigation, including dual redundant INS and quad redundant air data, to
the WATCHKEEPER UAV, the largest UAV program outside the United States.
The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence (MOD) awarded the WATCHKEEPER contract worth $1.2 billion (£800 million) to a team
led by Thales UK in 2005. The MOD will use WATCHKEEPER to provide essential surveillance and reconnaissance to protect British
troops during times of war. System flight tests of WATCHKEEPER began this month.
"We are very pleased to continue to provide our Athena guidance and navigation systems to this extremely important, high profile
international UAV program," said Dr. David Vos, senior director of control technologies for Rockwell Collins. "The Athena
411 meets Watchkeeper's Defence-Standard requirements and provides the highest performance at the best value. Weighing only
2.2 pounds or 1 Kg, it is the lightest, smallest and most affordable COTS GuideStar with tactical grade performance."
Purchased by Rockwell Collins in April 2008, Athena Technologies has built a reputation as a premier developer and producer
of navigation and control systems. Founded in 1998, the company produces the GuideStar family of versatile, compact and cost-effective
flight control systems for applications such as commercial aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL) is a pioneer in the development and deployment of innovative communication and aviation electronic
solutions for both commercial and government applications. Our expertise in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, mission
communications, information management and simulation and training is delivered by 20,000 employees, and a global service
and support network that crosses 27 countries. To find out more, please visit www.rockwellcollins.com.
Media Contacts
Dave Gosch
319.295.2908
319.651.3042 (cell)
djgosch@rockwellcollins.com
Maureen Stevens
703.517.6926 (cell)
540.878.2251
mpsteven@rockwellcollins.com
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