Exelis has signed an agreement with Saab Aeronautics to manufacture and supply structural components for the latter’s Gripen E multirole fighter aircraft. Pneumatic missile eject launcher pylons are to be developed and supplied to Saab of Sweden by Excelis under a long-term agreement.
Under the terms of business agreement, the company will develop and supply pneumatic missile eject launcher (PMEL) pylons, which enable powered ejection of Meteor and AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile (AMRAAM) from the fuselage underside.
The long-term agreement covers the entire operational life of the aircraft and includes follow-on and upgrades to the system.
Exelis International Night Vision and Communications Solutions vice-president and general manager Ken Harrison said: “This is a great opportunity for us to build on Exelis weapon carriage and release experience and continue to grow in the air-to-air missile eject market.”
Exelis said signature of the agreement between the two companies released an immediate design and development phase contract, which includes the delivery and supply of several flight-trial units. A later initial production contract will provide for the supply of 214 PMEL units to Saab.
Work under the contract will be conducted at Exelis’ facility in Brighton, England.
