25 Jun 03. General Dynamics United Kingdom Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), has been awarded a contract amendment worth more than £25 million (approx. $42 million US) from the UK Ministry of Defence for the provision of ground-to-air data connectivity with the British Army Apache WAH Mk 1 Helicopters.
The modification program, named Apache BOWMAN Connectivity or ABC, will provide a two-way data connection between the BOWMAN network and associated ground-based applications and the Apache Air Vehicle, without the requirement for aircraft modifications. Connectivity is achieved by the modification of a number of BOWMAN Network Access Units (BNAU) to incorporate improved data modem technology.
The Apache has a significant surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance capability provided by its onboard systems. When deployed, ABC will provide two-way data communications between BOWMAN-equipped units and the Apache. This important ground-air network will deliver effective command and control of a valuable rotary wing asset and enhance situational awareness through the wide distribution of the data it gathers.
General Dynamics UK is the prime contractor and systems integrator for the BOWMAN secure digital voice and data communication system for the UK armed forces. In parallel with BOWMAN, the company is taking a leading role in the growing UK market for digitization and network enabled capability programs.
Larry Johnson, managing director of General Dynamics UK Ltd., said: “The award of this contract demonstrates General Dynamics’ innovative approach to solving complex problems within affordable budgets. It also expands the BOWMAN network into the air domain and enhances the UK Armed Forces’ Network Enabled Capability.”
General Dynamics United Kingdom specializes in military communications, battlespace,mission and information management systems for safety and mission critical applications. It has been active in the UK since 1962 and now employs over 900 highly skilled staff at four locations.
GD UK’s is one of the leading European suppliers of integrated avionics and mission systems with products in operation worldwide. It is the second largest supplier of UK avionics equipment for Eurofighter and has vast experience in the design of solutions for the harsh operational environments of both fixed (fast jet) and rotary wing platforms.
GD UK is one of only two SEI Level 3 software integrators currently operating in the UK, and the company regularly provides this capability to other platform prime contractors and the MoD for a range of safety critical mission systems.