ATLANTA, Feb. 23, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- EMS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ELMG) announced today that EADS Astrium has awarded its Space & Technology/Atlanta Division two contracts valued at $6.1 million for key hardware on the United Kingdom's next-generation military communications satellite system, Skynet 5.
The first UK satellite program to be funded through an innovative private finance initiative, Skynet 5 is providing military satellite communications services to all three services of the UK Armed Forces, with the new satellites due for launch in 2006 and 2007.
For the first contract, EMS will supply the low noise amplifier (LNA) assembly for the front end of the SHF Repeaters Subsystem. EMS has used its unique ferrite technology to include redundant LNA capability in this vital assembly, which protects the satellite from terrestrial threats while giving it the ability to establish and maintain reliable communication links from space. For the second contract, EMS will provide a solid-state, MMIC-based switch matrix, which is smaller, lighter and more reliable than the more traditional mechanical switch-based networks. This switch matrix will route input signals to the selected output downlink, ensuring the proper routing of RF signals.
"This redundant LNA order represents the culmination of a two-year effort to develop key partnering relationships, and to apply the most recent breakthroughs in miniaturized ferrite switch technology to the demands of military communication satellites," said Norm Johnson, vice president for Space Electronics, EMS Space & Technology/Atlanta. "Our heritage with solid-state switch matrices includes programs such as Telstar 4, Intelsat 9 and Radarsat 2. Now, we will help standardize the technology on Skynet 5, further positioning EMS as the preferred non-prime contractor solution for solid-state switch matrices."
EMS is under contract to deliver two flights sets of this equipment within the next two years.
About EADS Astrium
EADS ASTRIUM is 100% owned by EADS, the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company. In 2002 Astrium had a turnover of 1.2 billion Euros with 7,200 employees in France, Germany, United Kingdom and Spain. EADS ASTRIUM's satellite business activities cover civil and military telecommunications, Earth observation, science and navigation programs, avionics and equipment.
EADS Astrium is under contract to supply the end-to-end Skynet 5 system, including 2 new high-powered satellites and enhanced ground segment, to Paradigm Secure Communications, the prime contractor for the Skynet 5 service.
About EMS Technologies, Inc.
EMS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ELMG) is a leading innovator in the design and manufacture of wireless, satellite and defense electronics solutions, focusing its unique range of advanced technologies on the needs of broadband and mobile information users. Headquartered in Atlanta, EMS employs approximately 1,700 people worldwide.
EMS Technologies' Space & Technology/Atlanta Division develops advanced technology hardware for military and space applications. The Division provides commercial and military customers with critical subsystems and components for terrestrial, airborne and space-based communication, RADAR and electronic warfare systems. With EMS hardware, military customers benefit from the industry's most advanced surveillance, electronic counter-measure and secure communications capabilities. For more information, visit EMS on the World Wide Web at www.ems-t.com.