Curtiss-Wright Awarded Multi-Million Dollar Contract for ASIST Helicopter Handling Systems

Curtiss-Wright Corporation announced it has been awarded a multi-million dollar contract by ASC AWD Shipbuilder on behalf of the Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Alliance, to supply Aircraft Ship Integrated Secure and Traverse (ASIST) helicopter handling systems and modular lightweight tracks for three Hobart Class ships for the Royal Australian Navy.

Curtiss-Wright Flow Control will perform the work at its facility in Ontario, Canada with initial deliveries scheduled to begin in late 2009. The total contract value, including all follow-on options, is expected to be in excess of $15 million.

The contract contains an option for a fourth shipset of equipment with a potential award in 2009.

"Curtiss-Wright is very pleased to continue its support of the Australian Navy's aviation operations and to work with ASC on this exciting new ship program," said Martin R. Benante, CEO and Chairman of Curtiss-Wright Corporation. "The supply of these helicopter handling systems demonstrates our continuing engineering expertise in providing improved capability through innovative equipment designs and overall value through operational efficiency."

The ASIST system is a state-of-the-art deck handling solution for shipboard helicopter operations. It integrates the functions required for landing and on-deck operations to stow large ship-borne helicopters.

Using the ASIST system, all deck handling operations can be accomplished without the need for personnel on the flight deck. The ASIST system enables safe helicopter handling day or night, even in adverse weather and sea conditions. The system will initially operate with the Australian Navy legacy S-70B helicopters and will be compatible with future helicopter designs.

The AWD program will provide the Royal Australian Navy with one of the world's most capable all-purpose warships. The three AWD Hobart Class ships will provide an advanced air defense system capable of engaging enemy aircraft and missiles at ranges in excess of 150km. The AWD ships will include a helicopter for surveillance and response to support key warfare areas as a part of their core capabilities.