09 Feb 2005
BAE Systems Avionics Group is set to demonstrate its latest wireless communications technology at Aero-India, Bangalore 2005 in a month where full scale flight trials of the system are due to begin.
This revolutionary technology enables hands free communication between flight crew and the platform intercom system without being physically connected to it. In removing the need for long leads and hand signals, the system creates a safer and more efficient environment resolving the problems of tangled and snagged wires that can restrict movement and become accidentally disconnected at critical moments. The technology enhances operational efficiency whilst improving the ability of operators to meet their duty of care to aircraft and ground based staff.
The Wireless Communication System comprises two units; the Platform Interface Unit that communicates with the intercom system, and the Operator Interface Unit that is worn by the operator. This configuration enables the operator to dismount from the platform and maintain hands-free, full-duplex communication with the platforms intercom system.
The system can be utilised in many applications for air, sea and land platforms and is able to support mission durations in excess of 30 hours when connected to a standard headset or more than 5 hours when powering an active noise reduction variant. It can also be used as an Emergency Crew Control link for use when all other communication systems fail. The system also supports digital transmission, voice encryption, PTT functionality and a durable design enabling it to be immersion proof to 1 metre.
In addition to extensive air activity, the system has also been proven in naval and land environments demonstrating the main benefits including improved spacial awareness, speed of dismounted activities, increased operational effectiveness with terrain assessment and unbroken communication links.
Paul Beck, Vice President Helicopter Systems, said: I am delighted that we are able to exhibit this technology in India, particularly at the same time as flight trials on fixed and rotary wing platforms are due to go ahead. We believe that its ease of integration and already demonstrated effectiveness will be of immense benefit to our customers.
About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea and in space. The company designs, manufactures and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, fighting vehicles, radar, avionics, communications, electronics and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.
BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company has more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately 12 billion through its wholly-owned and joint venture operations.
BAE Systems, innovating for a safer world.
About BAE SYSTEMS Avionics
BAE Systems Avionics is one of Europe's leading avionics companies,
and the UK's foremost supplier of electronic systems for military platforms
in the air, at sea and on land. With its head office at Basildon in the UK,
the Avionics organisation has major sites in southern England and Scotland.
The Group employs 4,900 people.
For further information, please contact:
Jane Macfarlane, External Communications Manager, BAE Systems Avionics Group
Tel: +44 (0) 131 343 8993 Mobile: +44 (0) 7736 810172
