Textron Systems News Releases

Shadow® Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Soar to 600,000 Flight Hours

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 21:03:11 GMT

Shadow® Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Soar to 600,000 Flight Hours

Hunt Valley, Md. – April 18, 2011 — AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that its Shadow Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems (TUAS) have achieved in excess of 600,000 total flight hours. Approximately 90 percent of these hours were amassed in support of combat operations at locations throughout Iraq and Afghanistan, fueling an average of more than 100,000 combat flight hours per year during each of the last three years.

Key to the success of Shadow TUAS is continuous operational readiness, which AAI supports through a comprehensive performance based logistics (PBL) program. In fact, the Shadow TUAS program recently received the Best PBL Implementation Award at the seventh-annual Defense Logistics Awards ceremony, and also earned the 2010 Gerald R. Beck System Level PBL Award presented by the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Together with the U.S. Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems Project Office, AAI’s maintenance and logistics support has driven system availability of more than 95 percent.

“It is a great privilege to work so closely with our Shadow TUAS customers,” says Division Vice President of TUAS Programs Vance King. “Our field service representatives are deployed with system users and work alongside them to provide maintenance and repair services, along with system performance upgrades and enhancements. That partnership has helped us stay attuned to dynamic user requirements, so we can evaluate and implement next-generation technologies to make their jobs easier, safer and more successful.”

During 2011, AAI will continue deployment of its innovative laser designation capability, as well as the new extended wing enhancement introduced in 2010. The extended wing provides an additional six feet of wingspan, increasing the size of the aircraft’s fuel cell and enhancing mission endurance to a total of nine hours. AAI also is testing a new, fuel-injected engine to further improve aircraft performance and reliability.

In addition, AAI is exploring several communications-related system enhancements. Among them is a Joint Tactical Radio System-compliant communications relay capability to create a Shadow-based aerial tier to the battlefield network. AAI also is supporting the fielding of a new Shadow system configuration incorporating the Tactical Common Data Link for even greater bandwidth, data encryption capability and information security.

“Our team excels at identifying and integrating innovative new performance capabilities onto Shadow TUAS,” says King. “Rapid deployment and robust technologies are critical to our customers’ mission success, and AAI delivers solutions to those requirements every day.”

About Textron Inc.

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

Media Contacts:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

Textron Marine & Land Systems Awarded Contract Option for 88 M1117 and M1200 Armored Vehicles

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 14:35:48 GMT

Textron Marine & Land Systems Awarded Contract Option for 88 M1117 and M1200 Armored Vehicles

New Orleans, La. – April 14, 2011 — Textron Marine & Land Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced a firm-fixed-price contract award from the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM) for 88 M1117 Armored Security Vehicles (ASV) and M1200 Armored Knight vehicles.

The award, valued at $64,332,732, exercises options for 37 M1117 ASVs, 51 M1200 Armored Knights and associated support equipment. The work will be performed through the end of 2012 at Textron Marine & Land Systems’ facilities in the New Orleans area.

“The ASV is a versatile platform that continues to deliver exceptional mobility, reliability and survivability enabling the U.S. Army to carry out a wide range of combat mission roles,” said Textron Marine & Land Systems Senior Vice President and General Manager Tom Walmsley. “For more than 12 years our team has worked hard to consistently deliver ASV products, in a variety of configurations, which provide our soldiers exceptional levels of security and protection.”

The ASV is a 4X4 wheeled armored vehicle that offers significant crew protection through the employment of multiple layers of armor, defending against small arms fire, artillery projectile fragments, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and land mines. It also uses a four-wheel independent suspension system to deliver superior mobility, agility, handling, and ride quality.
The ASV has maintained exceptional operational readiness and combat availability rates over the life of the U.S. Army program.

Textron Marine & Land Systems also has achieved 66 consecutive months of on-time delivery to the U.S. Army on the ASV program, and has delivered a total of 2,777 ASVs and 314 Armored Knight vehicles to the U.S. Army to date.

The ASV family of vehicles performs a wide variety of missions including scout, infantry personnel carrier, reconnaissance, command and control and maintenance. U.S. Army ASV missions include operations with the Military Police, convoy protection, perimeter security, as well as Field Artillery Combat Observation and Lasing Teams (COLT) with the M1200 Armored Knight configuration.

About Textron Marine & Land Systems
Textron Marine & Land Systems specializes in the design, production and support of advanced marine craft, armored combat vehicles, turrets and related subsystems. Through its MillenWorks strategic business, Textron Marine & Land Systems designs and develops advanced mobility solutions for demanding on- and off-road applications. Textron Marine & Land Systems serves military and commercial customers domestically and internationally, and is an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. company. More information is available at www.textronmarineandland.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

U.S. Army to Test, Evaluate SoldierEyes, FASTCOM Systems

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 15:48:33 GMT

U.S. Army to Test, Evaluate SoldierEyes, FASTCOM Systems

Overwatch Delivers Smartphone-Enabled Battlefield Solutions

Austin, TX – March 30, 2011 - Overwatch, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that its SoldierEyes smartphone-enabled analysis and battle tracking system will be a part of various upcoming U.S. Army field tests of smartphones, network equipment and applications. These tests are in support of the Army's Brigade Modernization initiatives, following Overwatch's more than eighteen months of support of the U.S. Army's 2nd Brigade, 1st Armor Division of the Brigade Modernization Command (BMC). A goal of the BCM is to evolve the SoldierEyes system to address the situational awareness needs of soldiers in full-spectrum operations.

"SoldierEyes is an outstanding example of the next generation of tools available to the individual warfighter," said Mike McCarthy, director of Operations, Brigade Modernization Command, TRADOC, U.S. Army. "The SoldierEyes technology has produced very relevant and open, smartphone-enabled services and applications that may be easily tailored to meet the needs of the Army."

SoldierEyes is fully operable within government fielded communications environments such as 3G/4G cellular and WiFi. In remote areas of the globe, where reliable connections are non-existent, SoldierEyes devices and systems are able to connect via the new FASTCOM technology co-developed by Overwatch and Textron Systems' AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems division in partnership with ViaSat Inc. FASTCOM is a mobile, secure battlefield cellular network that can be hosted on manned and unmanned aircraft, aerostats, masts or ground vehicles. Leveraging FASTCOM, SoldierEyes users are enabled with secure, mobile network connectivity even in the most austere tactical environments.

"The next generation of tools that SoldierEyes provides will serve to heighten warfighters' ability to gain and maintain situational awareness throughout all phases of a combat mission. It is a system that tracks across all six warfighting functions: movement and maneuver, fires, intelligence, sustainment, command and control, and protection," added Col. Marisa Tanner, division chief, Future Force Integration Directorate, TRADOC, U.S. Army.

The benefits of SoldierEyes are two-fold. First, the system provides soldiers with fused information that is populated to form a critical and more relevant common operation picture. This provides the soldier at the tactical edge greatly enhanced situational awareness and situational understanding whenever needed and wherever they are located. Through the integration of mobile technology and application services, SoldierEyes delivers real-time mission centric situational awareness to the warfighter. Viewing each warfighter as a sensor, SoldierEyes provides handheld capabilities for collecting, reporting and communicating mission critical geo-referenced information (video, reports, photos and more) between the soldier and existing command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems.

Secondly, the SoldierEyes system provides an open architecture environment that may be rapidly and continuously updated and improved through third party application development and deployment. The advantage of this system is that it will enable the Army to maximize the reuse of basic services and programs of record while leveraging the power of a large, certified third party development community to rapidly and efficiently address evolving mission needs. This approach provides existing government systems the benefit of fielding new operational applications, access to richer information, and a pathway to a relevant and timely common operating picture from the soldier to every echelon above.

SoldierEyes uses cloud architecture which is designed to operate on existing Government servers and to support any Internet Protocol (IP) enabled client, such as smartphones, tablets and personal computers. This design flexibility allows SoldierEyes to provide utility irrespective of the communications architecture, security protocols, client platforms, as well as various tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs) employed by the U.S. Army.

"The SoldierEyes Application Cloud manages the movement of information between the soldier, analysis applications and large Army databases. It fully supports a collaborative approach with its open Application Protocol Interface, or API, and available services, such as map servers, standard symbology database and more," said Overwatch Senior Program Manager Evan Corwin. "To demonstrate the open architecture, the SoldierEyes API has been shared with various third party developers who have easily merged new and existing data sources, sensors, applications, services and cell phone applications with the system. This unique approach highlights the flexibility and growth potential of the system among third party developers."

Later this year Overwatch will deploy the SoldierEyes system as a member of the FASTCOM team and participant in Empire Challenge 2011, as well as participate in large scale exercises with the U.S. Army's full-up Armor Brigade at the White Sands Missile Range. Numerous lab and field capability demonstrations and evaluations of the system are also planned throughout the year.

About ViaSat Inc.
ViaSat produces innovative satellite and other digital communication products that enable fast, secure, and efficient communications to virtually any location. The company provides networking products and managed network services for enterprise IP applications; network-centric military communications and encryption technologies and products to the U.S. government; gateway and customer-premises equipment for consumer and mobile satellite broadband services; and owns WildBlue, the premier Ka-band satellite broadband service provider. More information is available at www.viasat.com.

About Textron Systems
Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.textronsystems.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

Rutter to Lead Textron Systems Canada Office

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:05:25 GMT

Rutter to Lead Textron Systems Canada Office

WILMINGTON, Mass., Mar 28, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has named Neil Rutter as general manager of Textron Systems Canada, Inc. Rutter and his team are located in Ottawa, Canada, bringing the broad capabilities of Textron Systems' operating units to Canadian customers.

Rutter is rejoining Textron Systems to lead the Canadian office after two years as the president of Blenheim Capital Services in Washington, D.C. Prior to his working with the international relations company, Rutter was director of International Contracts and Industrial Cooperation with Textron Systems for more than seven years. His focus throughout his 30-year career has been in international business relations, including international business development, industrial cooperation and offset management.

Graduating from Queen's University on the Regular Officer Training Programme, Rutter served as an artillery officer in the Canadian Forces before attending law school. His last position in Canada was as General Counsel of Combustion Engineering Canada, located in Ottawa.

Textron Systems' Canadian office has identified its first priority as the Department of National Defence (DND) Canadian Forces' Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle (TAPV) program, for which Textron Systems is currently competing. If selected, Textron Systems Canada will provide the overall program management and execute the Industrial Regional Benefits (IRB) program. It is anticipated that, if selected for the TAPV program, Textron Systems Canada will add more than 300 long-term jobs across all the Canadian provinces, continuing Textron's long history of industrial partnership in Canada.

"We are happy to have Neil back with Textron Systems to lead our operations in Canada," said Textron Systems President and Chief Executive Officer Fred Strader. "Neil's understanding of the Canadian military and Canadian defense needs, combined with his proven leadership capabilities and broad experience with Textron, will allow us to support our Canadian customers with speed and superb execution."

Textron Systems and its operating unit, Textron Marine & Land Systems, plan to offer a 4x4 wheeled armored vehicle specifically engineered and designed to provide survivability, mobility and versatility across the asymmetric battlefield over the full spectrum of operations.

About Textron Systems

Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.textronsystems.com.

About Textron Inc.

Textron Systems Opens Facility in Canada

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:47:47 GMT

Textron Systems Opens Facility in Canada

WILMINGTON, Mass., Mar 21, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has opened a new facility located in Ottawa, Canada. Through this new facility, which will initially operate as a business office, Textron Systems will bring the broad capabilities of Textron Systems' operating units to Canadian customers.

Textron has a long-standing relationship with Canada, employing more than 1,800 people there. Bell Helicopter, also a Textron company, was recently awarded a 10-year, $640 million contract to provide support services for the Canadian Forces CH146 Griffon fleet. In addition, over the last four years, Textron companies Bell Helicopter, Cessna, Textron Defense Systems, AAI and Textron Marine & Land Systems have purchased more than $3.5 billion of supplies manufactured by Canadian companies.

One of the programmes to be a focus of the Ottawa office is the Department of National Defence (DND) Canadian Forces' Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle (TAPV) program for which Textron Systems is currently competing. With a successful bid Textron Systems Canada would provide the overall program management, act as the design authority, coordinate a team of Canadian companies for vehicle assembly and integration, provide direct product support, manage the 25-year In-Service Support contract, as well as execute Industrial Regional Benefits (IRB) program. With the TAPV contract award Textron Systems Canada plans to support a TAPV contract award with the addition of more than 300 long term jobs in Canada.

"Textron Systems has established a physical presence through which we can focus our efforts in support of the needs of the Canadian armed forces and other potential customers," said Textron Systems Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Fred Strader. "Our Textron Systems team in Canada will initially be focusing its attention on the TAPV program in conjunction with Textron Marine & Land Systems."

Textron Systems and its operating unit, Textron Marine & Land Systems, plan to offer a 4x4 wheeled armoured vehicle specifically engineered and designed to provide survivability, mobility and versatility across the asymmetric battlefield over the full spectrum of operations. The comprehensive, modern design is aimed at shielding troops from roadside bombs and blasts while providing large power reserves for future electronics enhancements, with an ergonomically designed interior for optimum comfort and payload. The vehicle has been tested extensively to confirm ballistic, blast, mobility and reliability levels that meet or exceed the Canadian TAPV requirements.

About Textron Systems

About Textron Inc.

Aerosonde® Unmanned Aircraft System to Support U.S. Air Force Academy Mission

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:50:45 GMT

Aerosonde® Unmanned Aircraft System to Support U.S. Air Force Academy Mission

Hunt Valley, Md. – March 2, 2011 — AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has been awarded a fee-for-service contract from BOSH Global Services to provide an Aerosonde unmanned aircraft system (UAS) for use by the U.S. Air Force Academy. The contract includes an Aerosonde Mark 4.7 system; support personnel to launch, fly and recover the aircraft; and computer-based training and simulation software for Cadets to utilize in their training. The academy also will gain use of AAI's On-the-Move Command and Control (OMCC) capability, which allows the aircraft to be controlled by personnel in a moving command and control station. The contract is for a one year period with an option to extend for one additional year.

"The fee-for-service arrangement provides the academy with a flexible, cost-effective, comprehensive system to train Cadets in the planning and executing UAS missions," says Stephen Flach, division vice president of AAI's Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems. "The academy will be able to draw upon the considerable assets of this AAI system as they train a core group of future U.S. Air Force leaders."

First unveiled in March 2009, the Aerosonde Mark 4.7 is part of AAI's modular fleet of small unmanned aircraft systems, and was jointly developed and produced by personnel at both AAI's Hunt Valley, Md., headquarters and Aerosonde Pty Ltd, the company's small unmanned aircraft systems business unit in Melbourne, Australia.

A standard-bearer in unmanned innovation for the last several decades, AAI has spent more than 25 years designing, producing, fielding and sustaining UAS for use in a wide variety of military, scientific and civilian applications. The company's contractor-owned, contractor-operated fee-for-service business was launched in an effort to meet our clients' UAS needs in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible while providing them with experienced, highly skilled operators and maintainers under a variety of operating conditions.

BOSH Global Services is an SBA-certified 8(a), veteran-owned company offering turnkey technical and operational support services. BOSH supports mission-critical unmanned systems, first responder communications networks, video distribution technology, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems. More information is available at www.boshgs.com.

About Textron Inc.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.
Aerosonde is a registered trademark of Aerosonde Pty Ltd.

Media Contacts:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

AAI Shadow® UAS Successfully Demonstrates Sense and Avoidance System

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 01:43:31 GMT

AAI Shadow ®UAS Successfully Demonstrates Sense and Avoidance System

Hunt Valley, Md. – February 28, 2011 — AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has successfully completed an unmanned flight demonstration of a Small Sense and Avoid System (SSAASy) on a Shadow 200 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). AAI’s Shadow system has established a reputation as a mature, capable system during more than 600,000 flight hours, the majority of which have taken place in Iraq and Afghanistan.

U.S. Army Ground Maneuver Product Manager Lt. Col. Andrew Hamilton stated, "This was the first successful demonstration of technology that will enable an airborne Sense and Avoid System on Army platforms. Building on the success of the ground-based Sense and Avoid System, this successful demonstration represents the next step toward an integrated air and ground-based sense and avoid solution allowing unmanned flights in the National Airspace System."

The flight was conducted by AAI and SSAASy developer Defense Research Associates, Inc. (DRA) of Dayton, Ohio, under contract with the U.S. Army. Unique to this flight test was the participation of a manned aircraft provided by the U.S. Army. The Shadow aircraft flew an average altitude of 9,000 feet for more than two hours. The manned aircraft flew at 1,000 feet above and below the Shadow during the first flight test, and 500 feet above and below for the second.

The goals of SSAASy are to improve safety and training effectiveness with the ultimate objective of safely flying UAS in U.S. National Airspace System (NAS). The majority of current UAS flight time is overseas in military operations, however, flight crew training and development of UAS is conducted in the U.S. within restricted air space or under a Certificate of Authorization approved by the FAA.

“The advantages of being able to safely conduct UAS training operations in NAS are significant,” said AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems Senior Vice President and General Manager Steven Reid. “The limited training time available in and location of, restricted air space hinders training of flight crews. Achieving a reliable UAS sense and avoidance system removes these limitations while enabling the FAA to safely allow unmanned aircraft in the NAS. Beyond the military, there is also growing demand for UAS operations in law enforcement, border patrol and homeland security.”

The U.S. Air Force and DRA began developing an Electro-Optical Sense and Avoid System in 2001, and created the SSAASy program in 2007 as a technology transition initiative from the U.S. Air Force to the U.S. Army. This effort to miniaturize the existing Electro-Optical Sense and Avoid System has been supported by the Office of the Secretary of Defense Office of Technology Transition, U.S. Air Force Aeronautical Systems Center, Air Force Research Laboratory, U.S. Army Shadow Program Office and DRA since its initiation.

About Textron Inc.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.
Shadow is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.

Media Contacts:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

Textron Marine & Land Systems Grants Cadillac Gage Support License to NAPCO International

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 17:04:34 GMT

Textron Marine & Land Systems Grants Cadillac Gage Support License to NAPCO International

New Orleans, LA and Hopkins, MN – February 24, 2011 — Textron Marine & Land Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced that it has granted a license to NAPCO International to provide commercial parts and services in support of Textron Marine & Land Systems’ legacy Cadillac Gage light and medium vehicle product line.
With this license in place, NAPCO will have Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) technical data and support so that they can directly provide service to more than 5,000 Cadillac Gage vehicles in use throughout the world.
“NAPCO’s core competency of supporting legacy military hardware internationally makes them a perfect fit for supporting the Cadillac Gage brand of military vehicles,” said Textron Marine & Land Systems Vice President of Land Systems Program Management and Life Cycle Support, Mike Gelpi. “Their experience, rapid response time and low cost make this license a true win for all Cadillac Gage customers.”

Textron acquired Cadillac Gage in 1986, and in 1994, Cadillac Cage became part of Textron Marine & Land Systems. The company has successfully produced highly mobile and survivable armored vehicle platforms such as the V-100, V-150 Commando, V-300, and Stingray® tank. Today, Textron Marine & Land Systems actively produces the M1117 Armored Security Vehicle (ASV), which is currently used by the U.S. Army in operations including the Military Police, convoy protection, as well as Field Artillery Combat Observation and Lasing Teams (COLT) with the M-1200 ASV variant. ASV variants are also being operated by the military and police forces of Iraq, Colombia and Bulgaria.

“Providing new and aftermarket military vehicle components and services worldwide is our business,” said NAPCO International President Theunis Botha. “We are confident in our ability to support and sustain the Cadillac Gage product line and we remain committed to providing comprehensive strategic business solutions to our customers, existing and new.”
“This license further strengthens the outstanding and comprehensive aftermarket support our customers receive,” said Textron Marine & Land Systems General Manager Tom Walmsley. “Cadillac Gage vehicles have successfully filled a wide range of military mission roles for countries around the globe, and will continue to do so with quality aftermarket support.”
NAPCO International
NAPCO International, headquartered in Hopkins, Minnesota is a solutions provider for the maintenance and sustainment of U.S. Manufactured Military Equipment and Provisions. NAPCO specializes in procurement, light manufacturing and materials management in support of military vehicles and related equipment. NAPCO is privately owned, with strong financial backing and over 60 years of Defense experience. For more information about NAPCO International LLC visit our website: www.napcointl.com.

# # #

Stingray is a registered trademark of Textron Innovations Inc.

Textron Defense Systems Earns CMMI® Maturity Level 3

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 16:41:21 GMT

Textron Defense Systems Earns CMMI® Maturity Level 3

Wilmington, MA – February 22, 2011 - Textron Defense Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that the company’s Wilmington, Mass., headquarters has been appraised at Maturity Level 3 of the Capability Maturity Model® Integration for Development Version 1.2 (CMMI-DEV). The Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement Version 1.2 Class A, or SCAMPISM A, was used to provide this benchmark quality rating. A CMMI Maturity Level 3 rating is an explicit requirement in many U.S. military development solicitations to ensure process maturity, continuous improvement and best value for customers.

The CMMI process improvement model was developed by the Carnegie Mellon Software Engineering Institute, a research and development center funded by the U.S. Department of Defense. Maturity Level 3 (ML3) means that engineering and program management standard processes are well characterized and understood across the organization.

“Continuous improvement is at the heart of our operational strategy. When we stay focused on productivity and efficiency, we can deliver our customers the best possible products — affordably and rapidly,” said Senior Vice President and General Manager Ellen Lord. “CMMI Level 3 comes from our several hundred employees achieving this quality benchmark every day. Meeting the rigorous requirements of CMMI confirms that our ongoing efforts to establish and improve standard processes are making us more efficient and competitive.”

About Textron Defense Systems

Textron Defense Systems employs advanced technology and industry expertise to develop and manufacture innovative product solutions including air-and ground-based smart weapons; directed energy weapons; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, or ISR, systems; and protection systems. Its distinctive solutions for U.S. and allied militaries, aerospace and homeland security communities provide precision effects, intelligence-gathering capabilities and force protection. More information is available at www.textrondefense.com.

About Textron Systems

About Textron Inc.

Capability Maturity Model and CMMI are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark office by Carnegie Mellon University.
SCAMPI is a service mark of Carnegie Mellon University.

Media Contact:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

AAI Completes Navy Fee-for-Service Operations with Aerosonde® Unmanned Aircraft Vehicle (UAV)

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 22:22:54 GMT

AAI Completes Navy Fee-for-Service Operations with Aerosonde® Unmanned Aircraft Vehicle (UAV)

Hunt Valley, Md. – February 22, 2011 — AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that the company has completed a fee-for-service operation on behalf of the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Dahlgren Division. NSWC Dahlgren has been chartered to conduct UAV flights in conjunction with tests of various types of ground radars and capture and analyze those results. AAI provided its experienced operators in a fee-for-service based arrangement using the Aerosonde UAV in support of those operations.

The Aerosonde Mark 4 series UAV performed this maritime mission profile by conducting pre-programmed flights over water at altitudes of only a few hundred feet at more than 20 miles from shore. The Aerosonde crew used a satellite system in conducting this beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) operation.

“Our team has years of BLOS experience, gaining notoriety by flying a similar maritime mission in support of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in 2007 where the Aerosonde flew for seven hours inside Hurricane Noel as part of its 17 hour flight,” said AAI Division Vice President of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Stephen Flach. “Our skilled operators and maintainers supported the eight-hour NSWC mission flights flawlessly which is a testament to the caliber of the flight crew AAI employs.”

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.
Aerosonde is a registered trademark of Aerosonde Pty Ltd.

Media Contacts:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

ESL Defence Limited Joins the Infrared Bench for Seeker Characterisation (IBOSEC) Program

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:51:44 GMT

ESL Defence Limited Joins the Infrared Bench for Seeker Characterisation (IBOSEC) Program

Hamble, United Kingdom – February 20, 2011 — ESL, a strategic business of AAI Test & Training, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has been selected by Elettronica S.p.A. (ELT) to participate in the IBOSEC program.

The Aeronautica Militare Italiana (AMI), or Italian Air Force, has contracted with ELT for a characterisation system for passive infrared sensors, also known as seekers. The IBOSEC system will be installed at the Experimental Flight Centre – Armament Department of AMI. The system will be used to optimise the performance of both flare countermeasures and directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) through the validation of flare signatures and jamming codes, enhancing aircraft survivability against infrared-guided threats.

Under the IBOSEC program, ELT will collaborate closely with ESL, which specialises in the design and production of electronic warfare test systems that provide high-fidelity threat simulation in the infrared and ultraviolet domains.

“The IBOSEC system will provide critical capabilities to the AMI, helping to save both lives and aircraft,” says Managing Director Bob Fox of ESL. “ESL’s extensive knowledge base in this area makes our team ideally suited to support ELT in delivering this advanced technology.”

About Textron Inc.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.

Media Contacts:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

Textron Marine & Land Systems, Granite Tactical Vehicles to Showcase HMMWV Recap System at AUSA Winter

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 16:40:43 GMT

Textron Marine & Land Systems, Granite Tactical Vehicles to Showcase HMMWV Recap System at AUSA Winter

SCTV Combines Proven Crew Protection Capsule with Upgraded Technology in a Cost-effective, Integrated System

New Orleans, LA and Mount Airy, NC – February 18, 2011 — Textron Marine & Land Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, and Granite Tactical Vehicles Inc. announced today that its Survivable Combat Tactical Vehicle (SCTV) system will be shown in outdoor Booth 3328 at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Winter Symposium.

The SCTV system is being offered by the Textron/Granite team as the solution to the U.S. Army's proposed High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) recapitalization program. SCTV is a complete vehicle system designed for seamless integration with the HMMWV chassis to handle the asymmetric battlefield with advanced technologies and features that provide increased mobility, survivability and performance for all HMMWV variants. The Textron/Granite team has incorporated rugged, durable, tested components, including a blast protected crew compartment, or capsule, with total system integration.

"The SCTV is more than a modernization of the HMMWV, it is revolutionizing the HMMWV," said Granite Tactical Vehicles President Chris Berman. "The protection upgrades hung on the HMMWV through the years have seriously compromised the performance of the vehicle. It was never intended to handle the weight it is being required to carry or provide protection levels required on today's battlefield. Our SCTV gives soldiers and Marines the performance and protection they need in the near-term."

The SCTV has undergone independent and U.S. Marine Corps blast and mobility testing. The independent blast testing confirms the vehicle is capable of protection levels equal to Mine Resistant Ambush Protection (MRAP) level 1 specifications. While providing unparalleled protection, the SCTV's mobility and performance exceed currently fielded HMMWVs by reducing overall weight and integrating upgraded suspension and engine technology.

"Today's operational tempo and combat challenges demand greater tactical mobility and survivability of the HMMWV," said Textron Marine & Land Systems Senior Vice President and General Manager Tom Walmsley. "With the cost and operational effectiveness of our SCTV, combined with our track record of on-time deliveries and low-risk performance, the Textron/Granite team is ready to bring the HMMWV fleet into the future."

About Granite Tactical Vehicles Inc.
Granite Tactical Vehicles Inc. designs, develops, manufactures and delivers armored vehicles for a broad spectrum of clients including private security contractors, law enforcement and various government agencies. Granite Tactical Vehicles' products have been field tested with great success on missions including convoy protection, personnel movement & relocation, rescue operations and cargo delivery. Granite Tactical Vehicles is committed to providing best-in-class armored vehicles and protecting the lives of those who face the day-to-day challenges of rapidly increasing threat levels. More information is available at www.granitetacticalvehicles.com.

Textron Defense Systems Receives $257M Order to Supply Sensor Fuzed Weapons to Indian Air Force

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 15:26:21 GMT

Textron Defense Systems Receives $257M Order to Supply Sensor Fuzed Weapons to Indian Air Force

Bangalore, India – February 9, 2011 - Textron Defense Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has received a contract from the U.S. Air Force to produce 512 CBU-105 Sensor Fuzed Weapon (SFW) units for the Government of India under a Foreign Military Sale agreement. The total value of the contract is $257 million with $126 million funded immediately.

"We believe that SFW is truly the best area attack weapon in the world. Through a process of rigorous research, testing and analysis, we have created a weapon that is reliable, safe and meets current clean battlefield standards," said Ellen Lord, senior vice president and general manager of Textron Defense Systems.

The Textron Defense Systems' combat-proven SFW is unique among munitions systems because of its redundant technologies for clean battlefield operation. SFW has been engineered to eliminate the risk of unacceptable harm to civilians or non-combatants. As a result, it is the only air-delivered weapon that meets the strict unexploded ordnance (UXO) criteria for cluster munitions -- requiring less than one percent UXO in intended operational environments -- set forth by the U.S. Secretary of Defense in June 2008.

The first and only combat-proven clean battlefield weapon of its kind in the U.S. Air Force inventory, the SFW contains Textron Defense Systems' BLU-108 submunition and smart SkeetTM warheads equipped with dual-mode passive infrared and active laser sensors. If a Skeet warhead does not detect a valid target over its lofted trajectory, one of its three safety modes will activate. The first two modes enable the Skeet to self-destruct after eight seconds from launch or within a 50-foot (15 meters) altitude above the ground. Combined, these two features deliver greater than 99 percent reliability. The Skeet's third mode automatically renders the Skeet inoperable via self-deactivation within minutes of hitting the ground.

About Textron Defense Systems

About Textron Systems

About Textron Inc.

Media Contact:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

Textron Marine & Land Systems Launches Motor Lifeboats for Mexican Navy

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 18:25:59 GMT

Textron Marine & Land Systems Launches Motor Lifeboats for Mexican Navy

New Orleans, LA – January 24, 2011 — Textron Marine & Land Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced the acceptance of the sixth Motor Lifeboat (MLB) contracted by the Mexican Navy. The first five of the contracted MLBs have been delivered to Mexico with the sixth craft scheduled for delivery to Mexico in the first quarter of 2011.

The Mexican Ministry of the Navy contracted with Textron Marine & Land Systems in 2008 to build the MLBs modeled after the Textron Marine & Land Systems designed craft currently in operation with the U.S. Coast Guard. Textron Marine & Land Systems delivered the first five MLBs in seven months, during which time crew training was also completed.

“We are extremely pleased with the workmanship and performance of the Motor Lifeboat,” said Admiral Vidal Francisco Soberon Sanz, of the Mexican Navy. “All of the craft were delivered on schedule and the training our crews received from the Textron Marine & Land Systems team has been of the highest quality.”

The 47-foot self-righting vessel strengthens the search and rescue capabilities of the Mexican Navy, which generally consist of 17 Search and Rescue Naval Stations. The addition of MLBs fulfills the requirements for search and rescue operations in adverse weather conditions. MLBs are currently operating on both coasts of Mexico in locations such as Cuidad del Carmen in support of search and rescue operations in the Mexican off shore oil fields, as well as Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, Isla Mujeres, and Tampico in support of search and rescue efforts during hurricane season.

“The MLBs delivered to Mexico have already been put to the test in operations through the 2010 hurricane season on both coasts, serving the Mexican Navy admirably,” said Textron Marine & Land Systems General Manager Tom Walmsley. “The MLB has proven invaluable to the U.S. Coast Guard for more than 20 years with its unsurpassed rough sea search and rescue capabilities.”

About Motor Lifeboat (MLB)
The Textron Marine & Land Systems 47-foot Motor Lifeboat (MLB) is a rugged, highly survivable, all-aluminum rescue boat that significantly enhances search and rescue operations in heavy weather conditions. Its lightweight, rugged marine-grade aluminum hull can withstand impacts from 20-foot breaking waves at three times the force of gravity. The MLB design has an inherent self-righting capability. When pitch-poled or rolled into swells, the MLB will self-right in less than 10 seconds — with all machinery remaining fully operational. Textron Marine & Land Systems previously delivered 117 MLB craft to the United States Coast Guard.

Textron Marine & Land Systems Signs Supply Chain Alliance with Defense Logistics Agency

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:40:02 GMT

Textron Marine & Land Systems Signs Supply Chain Alliance with Defense Logistics Agency

New Orleans, LA – January 19, 2011 — Textron Marine & Land Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced the signing of a Supply Chain Alliance with Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Land and Maritime based in Columbus, Ohio.

This alliance strengthens the existing relationship between the two organizations and provides various mechanisms to monitor metrics such as on-time delivery, part usage, administrative process time and product quality. The execution of a Supply Chain Alliance reinforces the intent of both parties to be long-term, reliable suppliers of spare parts in support of the warfighter.

“The relationship between Textron Marine & Land Systems and DLA has been dynamic and dependable,” said Textron Marine & Land Systems Director of Life Cycle Support, Quitman Gahagan. “With this alliance in place we formalize our commitment to continuous process and quality improvement and continued success.”

Textron Marine & Land Systems has been the largest supplier of spare parts for the M1117 Armored Security Vehicle (ASV) since 2003 and continues to deliver high quality and timely parts to DLA facilities across the United States. There are more than 2,500 ASVs in the U.S. Army inventory with a 20-plus year lifecycle that depends on a reliable stream of spare parts and support. As the Original Equipment Manufacturer of the ASV, Textron Marine & Land Systems works cooperatively with DLA to maintain supply chain efficiency, supporting the continued outstanding operational readiness rate of the ASV.

The Supply Chain Alliance was executed by Colonel Ryan B. Kivett, U.S. Army, and Textron Marine & Land Systems’ Gahagan during a December signing ceremony at the Textron Marine & Land Systems headquarters in Slidell, Louisiana. This alliance also enables both parties to better support current and future ASV foreign military sales to Iraq, Colombia and others.

“Supply chain logistics is an integral part of our M1117 ASV program,” said Textron Marine & Land Systems General Manager Tom Walmsley. “The outstanding readiness rates of the ASV are critical to providing the warfighter with a highly survivable and mobile armored wheeled vehicle for mission success in a wide range of combat roles.”

About Textron Inc.

AAI Corporation Separates into Three Businesses within Textron Systems

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:10:11 GMT

AAI Corporation Separates into Three Businesses within Textron Systems

Steven Reid, Bob Peters and Diane Giuliani to Lead Businesses; Ellen Lord to Lead Textron Defense Systems

Wilmington, MA - January 18, 2011 –Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced that AAI, an operating unit of the company, will become three separate operating units – AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems, AAI Test & Training and AAI Logistics & Technical Services – led by Steven Reid, Bob Peters and Diane Giuliani, respectively. Reid, Peters and Giuliani have been promoted to senior vice presidents and general managers of their businesses, reporting to Fred Strader, Textron Systems’ president and chief executive officer.

“We are splitting AAI into three businesses – AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems, AAI Test & Training and AAI Logistics & Technical Services – given their respective sizes and growing capabilities. These changes will enable each business to better support our customers’ current and future needs, while also making our company more efficient,” explained Strader.

AAI’s current senior vice president and general manager, Ellen Lord, will now lead Textron Defense Systems, also an operating unit of Textron Systems, where she will take over from Mark Catizone, who has taken a senior level position on Textron Systems executive leadership team.

“Ellen Lord has been a strong leader at AAI since mid-2008, playing a critical role in the integration of AAI into Textron Systems after the business was acquired in late 2007. She understands the changes affecting Textron Defense Systems’ customers and, given her previous program leadership roles within TDS, she has a deep knowledge of the TDS business,” added Strader. “Additionally, Mark Catizone’s experience as a general manager, systems implementations leader and finance executive will be valuable to our executive leadership team as we make other improvements across our company.”

AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems, AAI Test & Training and AAI Logistics & Technical Services will continue to operate out of Hunt Valley, Maryland. Textron Defense Systems is located in Wilmington, Massachusetts.

About Textron Systems
Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.textronsystems.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

XM1100 Scorpion Scores Hits in All Live Fire Tests

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 17:41:59 GMT

XM1100 Scorpion Scores Hits in All Live Fire Tests
System Performance Verified Across Operational Environments

Wilmington, MA – December 6, 2010 - Textron Defense Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that its XM1100 Scorpion networked ground munitions system successfully completed U.S. Army hot environment performance testing at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, marking a key milestone in the verification of Scorpion system performance across all operational environments. The Scorpion system performed successfully during live-fire engagements against moving main battle tanks and medium armored personnel carrier targets, scoring hits with its highly lethal explosively formed penetrator warhead in 100 percent of these live fire tests. Additional demonstrations at the event featured Scorpion's communication, command and control and power management capabilities as well as the operational reliability of the system during nearly a month of severe, hot environmental conditions.

The Scorpion system consists of an advanced munition control station that provides the soldier with situational awareness and positive control of the Scorpion munitions, and the Scorpion munitions' dispensing module (DM). It fuses sensor data from a single DM or a field of multiple networked DMs in order to detect, track, classify, report, engage and destroy targets. These features enable the Scorpion networked munition system to provide the Army an active obstacle capability that scales from combat outpost protection to large-scale shaping of the battlefield.

"Effective, reliable performance is a critical benefit of our Scorpion system," says Senior Vice President and General Manager Mark Catizone of Textron Defense Systems. "In addition, we have incorporated several features for safe battlefield operation. Continuous man-in-the-loop connectivity hinders enemy approach and protects friendly forces, while the provision for both non-lethal and lethal effects gives warfighters all the tools they need for a timely and appropriate threat response."

About Textron Defense Systems

About Textron Systems

About Textron Inc.

Textron Marine & Land Systems Win Center Opens at Slidell Facility

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 23:42:04 GMT

Textron Marine & Land Systems Win Center Opens at Slidell Facility

Center Targeting Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC) Program

New Orleans, LA – November 4, 2010 — Textron Marine & Land Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has opened the Textron Marine & Land Systems Win Center at its Slidell, Louisiana facility with the focus of capturing new business opportunities.

The Win Center is based in a remodeled building at Textron Marine & Land Systems and will house the capture team for the U.S. Navy’s SSC program. Textron Marine & Land Systems is teamed with L-3 Communications and Alcoa Defense on the SSC program.

“Winning the SSC program has been of the highest priority to Textron Marine & Land Systems since we began discussions years ago with the U.S. Navy on the design of the next amphibious landing craft,” said Textron Marine & Land Systems General Manager Tom Walmsley. “This Textron Marine & Land Systems Win Center will help us achieve our goal to bring this work and the corresponding jobs to Louisiana.”

“You couldn’t ask for a better corporate citizen than Textron,” said Slidell Mayor Freddy Drennan at the Textron Win Center ribbon cutting. “Not only are they one of the city’s biggest employers, but they are strongly involved in their community. They are also one of the City of Slidell’s Cultural Season Sponsors, which benefits the community and enhances the quality of life in the City of Slidell.”

The SSC is planned to be the functional replacement for the Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC), the cornerstone of the U.S. amphibious program for more than 20 years, providing a revolutionary means for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps to land at more than 80 percent of the world's shorelines. LCAC has fulfilled a critical role in tactical operations and humanitarian relief efforts across the globe.

The SSC program, with its amphibious lift requirement, will provide the surface assault portion of the Joint Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare tactical solution with the capability to project and sustain military operations from the sea, independent of tides, water depth, underwater obstacles, or beach gradient. An SSC detailed design and construction contract for the lead test and training craft is expected to be awarded in 2011.

About Textron Inc.

Overwatch Releases RemoteView™ 3.2 Featuring Enhanced 3D Pro

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:12:08 GMT

Overwatch Releases RemoteView™ 3.2 Featuring Enhanced 3D Pro

Austin, TX – November 2, 2010 - Overwatch, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced the release of its latest satellite image analysis software RemoteView 3.2. RemoteView is a leading imagery intelligence product for the defense and intelligence community and is noted for its ease of use, accuracy and innovative workflow.

The most significant enhancements made to RemoteView 3.2 can be found in the new Geo-Confidence and Elevation Coverage Indicators. These tools work together to provide analysts with an instant color-coded display and description of the validity and accuracy of geographic coordinates along with information on how much of their image is covered by valid elevation data. The new features, coupled with RemoteView's existing integration with precision positioning and mensuration packages, reinforce RemoteView's position in the geospatial analysis market.

The new version of RemoteView also includes the ability to visualize and utilize Light Detecting and Ranging (LIDAR) point cloud data. This allows analysts to leverage the high resolution elevation information that LIDAR offers and visualize point clouds that contain hundreds of millions of points. Additional RemoteView 3.2 enhancements include custom sorting of folder contents by specific criteria, bookmarking view settings for particular scenes and magnification without obscuring the original target area. It also offers support for the Web Coverage Service (WCS), publishing to Google Earth and portable document file (PDF), and visualizing the severity of slope to conduct mobility analysis.

The improved 3D Pro extension expands RemoteView's 3D visualization and analysis tools, providing warfighters and decision makers with realistic mission insight. 3D Pro provides the ability to visualize, fuse, analyze, and disseminate extremely large and diverse data sources into a compelling, real-time 2D or 3D view of the data and situation. 3D Pro includes a highly sophisticated data management system that is capable of rendering and manipulating multiple large data sources simultaneously. Once the data has been loaded and rendered, users have a suite of tools at their disposal to perform real-time analysis of the data including radial line-of-sight, buffer zone analysis, landing zones, and 3D mensuration. To facilitate dissemination of the data and analysis, 3D Pro includes tools to export a fully interactive 3D scene to a 3D PDF document or Google Earth format.

"We are proud to maintain RemoteView's industry-leading heritage with this latest upgrade," said Stuart Blundell, Overwatch vice president of geospatial products and services. "We receive constant feedback from our customers about how much they appreciate the efficient workflows and quality tools within the software. Many of the newest improvements were suggested by end users to help them become more effective in their work."

Shipments of 3.2 upgrades for RemoteView customers under active maintenance and support agreements are expected to begin in December.

About Overwatch
Overwatch, an operating unit of Textron Systems, is the leading provider of integrated intelligence software solutions and services as well as robust satellite communications systems for today's U.S. and international defense and intelligence communities. For the past 20 years, Overwatch's intelligence solutions have supported decision makers, counter-terrorism analysts, warfighters and first responders by providing proven tools that simplify the integration, analysis and exploitation of intelligence in order to present a complete operational picture and accelerate the time-to-decision. More information is available at www.overwatch.com.

About Textron Systems
Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. . More information is available at www.textronsystems.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

RemoteView is a trademark of Overwatch Systems, Ltd.

AAI Receives $70.7 Million Award for Shadow® Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System Laser Designator Kits

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:27:38 GMT

AAI Receives $70.7 Million Award for Shadow® Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System Laser Designator Kits

Hunt Valley, MD— Oct 26, 2010 — AAI, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that the U.S. Army has awarded the company a $70.7 million contract for laser designator kits, which will be integrated onto the Army's and Marine Corps' Shadow Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems. AAI is contracted to deliver 142 laser designator payloads and 61 boresight tools.

A Shadow aircraft outfitted with this new payload can designate targets for laser-guided weapons. This capability acts as a force multiplier and increases a commander's tactical options.

"Laser designation capability enables Shadow Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems to play an even larger role for our customers in the field," explains Vice President of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Steven Reid of AAI. "We are constantly on the lookout for enhancements such as this to help warfighters accomplish missions decisively and safely."

AAI expects deliveries to begin in 2011, and to run through 2012.

About AAI

AAI Corporation and its indirect wholly owned subsidiaries Aerosonde Pty Ltd and ESL Defence Limited design, produce and support industry-leading aerospace and defense products and services, including unmanned aircraft and ground control technologies; high-fidelity training and simulation systems; automated aerospace test and maintenance equipment; armament systems; and logistical, engineering, supply chain and operational support services. AAI Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at http://www.aaicorp.com.

About Textron Systems

About Textron Inc.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.

Shadow is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.

AAI, Overwatch and ViaSat to Demonstrate FASTCOM(TM) Expeditionary Cellular Communications Network at AUSA 2010 Annual Meeting & Exposition

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:19:52 GMT

AAI, Overwatch and ViaSat to Demonstrate FASTCOM(TM) Expeditionary Cellular Communications Network at AUSA 2010 Annual Meeting & Exposition

WASHINGTON, Oct 25, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- AAI and Overwatch, operating units of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, along with ViaSat Inc., will introduce and demonstrate the new Forward Airborne Secure Transmissions and Communications (FASTCOM) system today at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) 2010 Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, D.C. Visitors to booth #1405 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center can view a live demonstration of the secure, expeditionary cellular network, which supports Secret and below communications. ViaSat, located at booth #4239, also will support the demonstration at AUSA.

Powered by an unmanned aircraft, aerostat or ground vehicle equipped with third-generation (3G) cellular pods with fourth-generation expansion capability, FASTCOM creates a secure and private, mobile cellular network, or "bubble." Users within the bubble can receive intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance data; achieve direct access to intelligence sources such as the AAI/Overwatch Tactical Remote Exploitation (T-REx(TM)) Terminal; and utilize voice and data backhaul through ViaSat satellite communication sources. In addition, users have access to all of the 3G features of their smartphones, such as Overwatch's SoldierEyes(TM) suite of command, control, intelligence and situational awareness applets. SoldierEyes enables interoperability with intelligence databases and uses an open architecture that supports third-party software applications.

"Secure mobile communications are vital for situational awareness and safety in the battlefield, and warfighters need these resources available to them 24/7, regardless of the surrounding area's austerity or lack of infrastructure. The FASTCOM system provides our troops the right capabilities, right now," says Senior Vice President and General Manager Ellen Lord of AAI. "AAI, Overwatch and ViaSat have combined their core areas of expertise and incorporated proven technologies and commercial, off-the-shelf equipment to create a new and timely solution for our customers."

"Commercial technologies have matured to the point that both the infrastructure and the smartphone can be packaged and secured to allow warfighters to deploy the communications devices they are already familiar with and use at home," says ViaSat Vice President and General Manager, Information Assurance Chris Wren. "There is amazing potential to use the FASTCOM system to provide applications that increase the connectivity and visibility of our troops."

"Technology is only as good as it is useful," says Overwatch Senior Vice President and General Manager Randall Averitte. "Our realistic demonstration scenarios will showcase one of the most important benefits of FASTCOM -- the system's ability to deploy rapidly and successfully to enhance the capabilities of the force and the utility of its assets."

About AAI

About Overwatch

Overwatch, an operating unit of Textron Systems, is the leading provider of integrated intelligence software solutions and services as well as robust satellite communications systems for today's U.S. and international defense and intelligence communities. For the past 20 years, Overwatch's intelligence solutions have supported decision makers, counter-terrorism analysts, warfighters and first responders by providing proven tools that simplify the integration, analysis and exploitation of intelligence in order to present a complete operational picture and accelerate the time-to-decision. More information is available at http://www.overwatch.com.

About ViaSat Inc.

ViaSat produces innovative satellite and other digital communication products that enable fast, secure, and efficient communications to virtually any location. The company provides networking products and managed network services for enterprise IP applications; network-centric military communications and encryption technologies and products to the U.S. government; gateway and customer-premises equipment for consumer and mobile satellite broadband services; and owns WildBlue, the premier Ka-band satellite broadband service provider. More information is available at http://www.viasat.com.

About Textron Systems

About Textron Inc.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.

FASTCOM and T-REx are trademarks of AAI Corporation.

SoldierEyes is a trademark of Overwatch.

AAI Completes U.S. Army Fee-for-Service Operations with Aerosonde(R) Mark 4.7 and Orbiter(TM) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 13:46:00 GMT

AAI Completes U.S. Army Fee-for-Service Operations with Aerosonde(R) Mark 4.7 and Orbiter(TM) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

Hunt Valley, Maryland — Oct 19, 2010 — AAI, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that the company has completed fee-for-service operations on behalf of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Research, Development, and Engineering Center (CERDEC) for its annual Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) On-the-Move (OTM) program. AAI's experienced operators supported the C4ISR OTM program by executing numerous missions using its Aerosonde Mark 4.7 and the Orbiter UAS, manufactured by Aeronautics Ltd. of Israel, supporting emerging concepts and capabilities demonstrations with the Army.

Over several weeks, the Aerosonde Mark 4.7 and Orbiter UAS performed a variety of mission profiles, including communications relay and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), to support customer evaluation of future force concepts such as soldier radio waveform (SRW) and a company/squad-level quick-reaction ISR force. In one scenario, the customer employed Aerosonde aircraft to link more than 40 separate mounted and dismounted SRW nodes using the Aerosonde Mark 4.7 aircraft's communication relay capability. Operators also executed dual communications relay missions by flying two Aerosonde aircraft simultaneously, while one of those aircraft also flew with an ISR payload.

The AAI aircraft and operators also achieved additional milestones during the CERDEC C4ISR OTM Event 2010, demonstrating the performance of AAI's On-the-Move Command and Control capability, which allowed both the Aerosonde and Orbiter aircraft to be controlled by personnel in a moving ground control station. In addition, AAI matured its "hub and spoke" concept, enabling the transfer of airborne aircraft between ground control stations. Both Aerosonde and Orbiter UAS also demonstrated their interoperability with the AAI-designed One System® Remote Video Terminal, currently in service with the Army, through transmission of full-motion video data to the command network. AAI is the exclusive marketing representative for the Orbiter UAS in the United States.

"Our Aerosonde Mark 4.7 and Orbiter UAS offer robust capabilities with small logistics footprints, making them easy to transport, launch and recover, even in austere or shipboard environments," says Division Vice President, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Stephen Flach of AAI. "We are continuously incorporating new features into our systems, such as On-the-Move Command and Control, to deliver even greater mission flexibility, performance and value to customers like CERDEC."

As a full-service UAS provider, AAI's skilled, experienced operators and maintainers also are available to provide customers seamless fee-for-service operations.

"Customers can benefit from fee-for-service UAS support for several reasons," says Vice President of Logistics & Technical Services Diane Giuliani of AAI. "In this case, our CERDEC customer required UAS services for a pre-determined timeframe to demonstrate specific capabilities. Contractor-owned, contractor-operated UAS also can supplement the ISR power of existing customer systems, or implement those capabilities for new customers quickly. The flexibility our skilled crews provide, coupled with AAI's range of mature UAS, are a win-win for customers who need fast, reliable UAS support."

About AAI
AAI Corporation and its indirect wholly owned subsidiaries Aerosonde Pty Ltd and ESL Defence Limited design, produce and support industry-leading aerospace and defense products and services, including unmanned aircraft and ground control technologies; high-fidelity training and simulation systems; automated aerospace test and maintenance equipment; armament systems; and logistical, engineering, supply chain and operational support services. AAI Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.aaicorp.com.

About Textron Systems
Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.textronsystems.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.

Aerosonde is a registered trademark of Aerosonde Pty Ltd.

Orbiter is a trademark of Aeronautics Ltd.

One System is a registered trademark of the U.S. Army.

Textron Marine & Land Systems Receives NAVSEA Infrastructure Improvement Award

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 19:09:03 GMT

Textron Marine & Land Systems Receives NAVSEA Infrastructure Improvement Award

New Orleans, LA – October 14, 2010 — Textron Marine & Land Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that the company has received $2.4 million from the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) to conduct infrastructure improvements to its New Orleans, La., shipyard. A follow-on to an earlier award addressing post-Hurricane Katrina infrastructure improvements, this new award will support renovations along the shipyard's waterfront area through November 2011 for better post-production access during craft test and trial operations, as well as other improvements throughout the company’s 42 acres of production operations.

Included in the scope of work is waterfront bulkhead repair and replacement to increase the safety and security of employees who require constant access to vessels during testing and trials. This will include installation of approximately 1,200 feet of new sheet pile walls on the Textron Marine & Land Systems waterfront bulkhead adjacent to Bayou Savage.

An earthen levee will be erected along the shipyard’s eastern frontage in conjunction with the elevation of the adjacent existing roadway to mitigate the risk of flooding. Additionally, a weather protection platform will be built to serve as a secure staging location for personnel and equipment during any potential weather crisis.

“Since Hurricane Katrina, we’ve made improvements to all our facilities and these NAVSEA funds allow us to make further improvements as we ready our modern shipyard to compete for future marine programs such as Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC),” said Textron Marine & Land Systems General Manager Tom Walmsley.

AAI Flies Aerosonde® Mark 4.7 Aircraft with Heavy Fuel Engine

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:24:28 GMT

AAI Flies Aerosonde® Mark 4.7 Aircraft with Heavy Fuel Engine

Hunt Valley, Maryland — October 7, 2010 — AAI Corporation, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has successfully demonstrated its Aerosonde Mark 4.7 small unmanned aircraft system (SUAS) with a heavy fuel engine (HFE) at Fort Pickett in Virginia.

A heavy fuel propulsion system is a critical capability for both U.S. and international armed services. Maritime forces like the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard benefit because kerosene-based fuels are less flammable than gasoline in shipboard environments. Services with both land- and air-based missions, such as the U.S. Army, can embrace a "one fuel forward" concept by transitioning to a single fuel for all of their assets, minimizing cost and logistics.

The larger HFE delivers a significant increase in electrical power, generating higher horsepower and enabling the Aerosonde Mark 4.7 aircraft to carry additional payloads with greater electrical demands. Increased horsepower also contributes to improvements in aircraft performance including climb rate, dash speed, mission endurance and altitude performance.

"Our integration of a heavy fuel propulsion system onto the Aerosonde Mark 4.7 SUAS promises users increased performance, mission flexibility and convenience," says Division Vice President, Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Stephen Flach of AAI. "This successful HFE demonstration is an important milestone, and just one example of how we look to continuously mature our systems' capabilities to anticipate customer needs."

The Aerosonde Mark 4.7 SUAS is a cost-effective, high-endurance platform designed for fast, easy launch and recovery from shipboard or small clearings. It incorporates AAI's unique Launch and Recovery Trailer, comprised of an AAI-proprietary Sliding Frame Launcher and hydraulically actuated Soft Hands™ Net Recovery System. The Launch and Recovery Trailer provides automatic aircraft launch and recovery, minimizes risk of aircraft damage during recovery, and streamlines shipboard operations.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.
Aerosonde is a registered trademark of Aerosonde Pty Ltd.
Soft Hands is a trademark of AAI Corporation.

Media Contacts:
Sharon Corona
410-628-3184
scorona@systems.textron.com

Overwatch Presented Austin Chamber of Commerce Innovation Award

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 08:33:11 GMT

Overwatch Presented Austin Chamber of Commerce Innovation Award

Austin, TX – October 4, 2010 - Overwatch, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has received the Austin Chamber of Commerce Innovation Award for large business in the 10th Annual Greater Austin Business Awards.

Overwatch was among 24 Austin-area businesses recognized in areas including Innovation, Education, Customer Service, Community Relations, Environment and Take on Traffic. Awards in each category were presented to businesses in small, medium, large and non-profit business sizes. Nearly 300 nominations were considered in all categories.

"This award was not for a specific innovation, but for how our company fosters a culture of innovation and how that serves our business, customers and community," said Overwatch General Manager Randy Averitte. "Overwatch was anonymously nominated for this award, which is highly regarded in the Austin business community. I feel we were singled out due to the ways in which Overwatch encourages our outstanding employees to develop the next brilliant idea and find unique ways to create solutions for our customers."

About Overwatch
Overwatch, an operating unit of Textron Systems, is the leading provider of integrated intelligence software solutions and services as well as robust satellite communications systems for today's U.S. and international defense and intelligence communities. For the past 20 years, Overwatch's intelligence solutions have supported decision makers, counter-terrorism analysts, warfighters and first responders by providing proven tools that simplify the integration, analysis and exploitation of intelligence in order to present a complete operational picture and accelerate the time-to-decision. More information is available at www.overwatch.com.

About Textron Systems
Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.textronsystems.com.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.