ATLANTA, June 5, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- EMS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ELMG) announced today that Harris Corporation has awarded EMS's Defense & Space Systems (D&SS) Division a contract to develop the Hawklink Common Data Link Terminal Antenna in support of the U.S. Navy MH-60R Seahawk Multi-Mission Ship-based Helicopter. Hawklink is a high-speed digital data link that transmits tactical video, radar, acoustic and other sensor data from MH-60R helicopters to their host surface ships or other airborne systems.
The contract calls for EMS to develop and deliver up to 500 antenna systems featuring EMS's patented slot-array antenna technology and unique composite positioner designs, integrated into a highly-efficient, low-weight, highly-reliable package. Each MH-60R Helicopter will be fitted with two EMS antennas -- one to the front and one to the back -- to give the aircraft full situational visibility.
EMS's contract value is potentially $22 million over the life of the program. EMS D&SS is delivering a second-generation design to Harris that provides improved microwave performance. EMS will complete the Engineering Development Model within 13 months, with future production lots being delivered on an annual basis.
"The EMS Data Link Antenna will provide extended range, higher data rates and greater reliability in support of the MH-60R, whether the helicopter is deployed to support Anti-submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-surface warfare (ASuW), Anti-ship surveillance or Search & Rescue missions," noted Michael Fatig, vice president, Business Development, for EMS D&SS. "Our design features composites, a highly-efficient slot array antenna and improved electronics, resulting in increased reliability, lower size, weight and power, and lower recurring unit production costs. This benefits the war-fighter in performing their missions and the Navy in getting high value from their appropriated funds. We believe this same value can be provided to other platforms."
"EMS Technologies is an important supplier to Harris as we begin the production phase for the Hawklink system," said Pat Mulvaney, CDL Hawklink program manager, Harris Corporation. "EMS's data link antennas, with their slot array technology and composite positioner design, offer our program a best value solution by providing high performance at a competitive price."
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.